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Historical Sketch 



OF THE 



Convent and Academy of the 
Sisters of St. Francis 



OLDENBURG, INDIANA, 



AND OF THE 



WORK OF THEIR COMMUNITY IN THE 
UNITED STATES. 



A SOUVENIR OF THE GOLDEN JUBILEE, 
CELEBRATED 1901. 



Oldenburg, Ind. 

Published by the Community. 

1901. 



<SssA^ 



\ • 










New Convent Building, Front View 

Donor: Mrs. L. Korte Moormann. 




New Convent Church. 

Donors: Misses M. and L. Dillhoff. 



PREFACE. 



JS^OOiV after the foundation of the Convent and 
opening of the Academy, it was the privilege of 
the author of this sketch to dwell in the sacred pre- 
cincts, and to take part in the dear Sisters trials and 
consolations. She therefore deems it a pleasant duty 
to offer them sincerest congratulations and the best 
wishes of a grateful heart on the auspicious occasion 
of the Golden Jubilee of the Community. 

In token thereof, these reminiscences of the past five 
decades are dedicated. If these grateful memories 
contribute but a mite to the edification of the present 
generation of Sisters and pupils, the object of these 
pages shall have been attained and their purpose ac- 
complished. 

Sincere thanks are due on the part of the writer, 
and are hereby cheerfully given, to the Sisters who so 
kindly placed for reference the Annals of the Com- 
munity at the disposal of 

THE AUTHOR. 

Feast of the Sacred Heart, 
June, iqoo. 



TO MARY IMMACULATE. OUR MOTHER. 

TO THE VENERABLE SISTERS WHO CHERISH THE MEMORY 

OF THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN CALLED 

TO THEIR REWARD, 

TO THE FRIENDS OF OUR YOUTH, 

THE PUPILS OF OLDENBURG ACADEMY, 

AND TO ALL WHO HAVE SHARED IN THE 

EXPERIENCES OF EARLY DAYS. 

THESE PAGES ARE AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED BY 
ONE OF THEIR NUMBER. 





OUR FOUNDER 



We loved him for the life he led, — 

The life of priest and saint; 
' Twas pure as morning's lily fair, 

Yea, free from worldly taint. 

We loved him for his gentle smile 

That dried the sinner's tear ; 
We loved him for his kindly word, 

So full of hope and cheer. 

He led us through the dark'ning gloom, 

A bright, resplendent star ; 
He led us to a brighter land, 

To dream of bliss afar. 

He was "Our Priest" — his life was pure, 

With sanctity aglow; 
He taught us virtue, mercy, hope, 

Therefore we loved him so. 




Rev. Francis Joseph Rudolf. 



'ART llRST. 

J850— J860. 



CHAPTER I. 

Introduction. — Present Status of the Community. — Its 
Object, the Education of Youth. — Annual Return 
of the Sisters to the Mother-House. 

JWfil'E parable of the mustard-seed may well be 
it applied to the Oldenburg Community of 
Franciscan Sisters: "The kingdom of heaven is like 
to a grain of mustard-seed, which a man took and 
sowed in his field; which is the least indeed of all 
seeds; but when it is grown up, it is greater than 
all herbs, and ■ becometh a tree, so that the birds of 
the air come, and dwell in the branches thereof." 
(Matt, xiii., 31, 32.) Thus did our Divine 
Saviour illustrate the law according to which the 
natural and spiritual life is developed. The minute 
grain of seed which the husbandman entrusts to 
the kind bosom of mother Earth reposes quietly and 
securely, shielded from all adverse influence. 
Presently it is thrilled with organic life, an enliv- 
ening force bursts its bonds, and expanding its 
slender rootlets it firmly grasps the nurturing soil. 
It is greeted by the sun's life-giving rays ; it unfolds 
its branches, leaves and blossoms appear, and at 
last golden fruit is the reward of the labor and 
patience expended. 

(ii) 



12 Historical Sketch. 

When we cast a retrospective glance at the 
establishment and progress of the Oldenburg Con- 
vent of Sisters of St. Francis, we shall find that 
Divine Providence has not departed, in its case, 
from this all-wise course. Arrived at the close 
of the first half century of its foundation, the future 
lies before us, a sealed book — a veiled vision. Let 
us, therefore, pause a while, and admiring the 
work of God as it is presented to our gaze, follow 
our guide through the sacred domain of memory. 

Great, indeed, are the changes wrought since 
the first days of the Convent, but their very 
achievement demonstrates the wisdom and pru- 
dence of its Founders. The stately halls of to-day 
echo their names and are pervaded by their spirit. 

The Oldenburg Community of Sisters of St. 
Francis of the Third Order Regular, now numbers 
about five hundred members. The Sisters conduct 
seventy-six parochial schools, one of them being 
assigned exclusively to colored children. Further- 
more, ten Academies are doing successful work 
in the field of higher education. The property of 
the Community consists of the mother-house, with 
four hundred acres of land, and twelve mission 
houses. The Convent never was the beneficiary 
of great legacies or charities. The object of the 
Institute is the education of youth; and whatever 
has been accomplished in the way of building and 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. ]3 

acquisition of property, is the result of the faithful 
adherence to the spirit of poverty, so earnestly 
inculcated by the Seraphic Founder. The surplus 
earnings of the Community were not, indeed, laid 
aside as a provision for the future, nor for personal 
use, but devoted to the greater glory of God, and 
to the salvation of souls. Once only in their 
history did the Sisters have recourse to charity. 
When their first Convent building was destroyed 
by fire, the Most Rev. Archbishop Purcell of 
Cincinnati invited them to take up a collection 
throughout the archdiocese, of which kind permis- 
sion they gratefully availed themselves. 

The Community is governed by a Superior 
General, each mission by a local superior. The 
annual vacation the Sisters spend in the Mother- 
house, at which time the spiritual exercises of a 
retreat are made in common. 

The purpose of the following pages is to keep 
alive in the memory of the Sisters and their 
pupils, the numerous acts of self-denial, humility 
and obedience by which their predecessors laid 
deep and broad the foundations of the Com- 
munity. If we ask: "Who built this house?" 
the answer is, "Poverty, charity and confidence in 
God." It is the tree grown from the mustard-seed, 
and after fifty years, expanding its branches far 
and wide, and bearing rich fruit in His honor to 
Whom alone honor is due. 



CHAPTER II. 

Devoted Sduls.— "My God and My All f— The First 
Convent Building. — Toil and Poverty. 

WJHE ancient castles in Europe that rear their 
1 hoary walls on a solitary mountain's crest, 
or nestle in a secluded wooded valley, have, as a 
rule, an apartment devoted to the preservation of 
the portraits of the family's ancestors and other 
souvenirs dear for memory's sake. This apart- 
ment is a sanctuary wherein the household mem- 
bers enter with silent awe to dwell musingly on the 
achievements and experiences of former times. 

The ancestors of the Oldenburg Sisters' Com- 
munity are those devoted souls who, fifty years 
ago, lived, labored and suffered in the spirit of 
their Holy Father, St. Francis. Retired from the 
world, unmindful alike of praise or censure, they 
made their own their Holy Founder's devise, "My 
God and My All !" They devoted their time, their toil 
and their poverty to the one grand work of saving 
souls, in accord with the object of their Institute. 
Silenced in death, they now rest from their labors, 

(14) 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldexburg, Ixd. 



15 



but their works are eloquent reminders of their 
deeds. 

The first Convent building in Oldenburg was a 
primitive stone structure without pretension, what- 
soever, to architectural style or ornamentation. It 
was divided into cells for the Sisters, who devoted 
themselves to the service of God and the salvation 
of the little ones so dear to our Saviour's Heart. 
Its history is as simple as was its appearance. 



, 




CHAPTER III. 

The Rev. Francis Joseph Rudolf, Founder of the Com- 
munity and of the Convent. — His Arrival in 
America, and First Labors. — Arrival at Oldenburg. 
— Poor Condition of the Mission. — The First 
Parish School. — A New Church. — Resolution to 
Build a Convent. 

f^HE Founder of the Oldenburg Community of 
Sisters of St. Francis is the Rev. Francis 
Joseph Rudolf, of sainted memory. He was 
ordained priest, August ioth, 1839, at Strassburg, 
Alsace. While yet a student of theology, he had 
resolved to devote himself to the American mis- 
sions, but was induced to serve three years as 
curate in his native diocese. In 1842 he received 
his dimissory letters and started on his voyage to 
the United States. On the ocean he had twice the 
happiness of celebrating the holy Sacrifice of the 
Mass, at which, as he related later, he included all 
the souls that would ever be committed to his care. 
After his safe arrival at the port of New York, he 
made haste to report to his Ordinary, the Right 
Rev. Celestine de la Hailandiere, Bishop of Vin- 
cennes, Indiana, who received him with paternal 

(16) 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 3 7 

kindness, and appointed him pastor of Fort Wayne, 
Ind. There he labored faithfully until October 
29th, 1844, when he was sent to Oldenburg to take 
charge of that congregation, which was composed 
almost exclusively of German immigrants who had 
settled in the farming districts of that neighbor- 
hood. 

Though the young missionary had been inured 
to hardships of all kinds, and certainly did not 
expect a life of ease or worldly advantages, he was 
scarcely prepared for the privations awaiting him 
at Oldenburg. On his arrival, he found an unfin- 
ished log house which was called the "church," a 
log hut, which served him for a dwelling, and 
another intended for a school. These were the 
accommodations awaiting the zealous missionary at 
the place in which Providence had destined him 
to accomplish his life work. Who can describe his 
emotions on first beholding it ! 

Even then his penetrating mind had grasped 
the importance of the school question, which since 
that time has engaged the attention of Church 
and State. One of his first acts was the appoint- 
ment of a teacher to aid him in preparing the 
children of his parish for their first Communion. 
Under the circumstances, he could not expect to 
find a graduate of a normal college to take charge 
of the class, but deemed himself fortunate in find- 



18 Historical Sketch. 

ing a man willing and well instructed, and 
moreover of religious character, to act in the 
capacity of teacher. He took up quarters in a 
small room attached to the school house. The 
latter, however, was sadly in need of repairs to 
make it a fit habitation. The class comprised 
twenty children, fourteen of whom were to be 
prepared for first Communion. Their parents had 
taught them their prayers, but the work of instruct- 
ing them for the most important act of their lives 
was by no means an easy one, as many of them 
were unable to read. 

The school was opened, and a regular course 
of instruction outlined. The inhabitants of 
Oldenburg and the surrounding country were 
mostly Germans, but Father Rudolf was convinced 
of the necessity of having the children instructed 
in both languages, the English and the German, 
and we can easily imagine how the zealous priest's 
mind was continually occupied with the thought of 
perfecting his school and raising its educational 
standard. He prayed and hoped, and his prayers 
and hopes were destined to accomplish even greater 
things than his most sanguine expectations had 
anticipated. 

The neighboring settlements were even poorer 
than the one at Oldenburg. As a rule, they com- 
prised a group of ten or twelve struggling German 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. U> 

families living in primitive log' huts, bare of every 
comfort. In these huts, the missionary was often 
compelled to say Mass. 

Such were the surroundings in which Divine 
Providence had placed the Founder of the 
Oldenburg Community of Sisters of St. Francis. 
Still deeply impressed with the disastrous results 
of the French Revolution, which he had witnessed 
in Europe, he was convinced of the necessity of 
Catholic education; hence his zeal for the Catholic 
school. The thought of providing capable teachers 
for them became uppermost in his mind. In 
prayerful meditation, he was convinced that the 
foundation of a Convent whose inmates should 
devote themselves exclusively to the education of 
youth, was the best solution of the problem. The 
sacrifices and difficulties encountered in the prose- 
cution of this plan shall become known, and 
redound to his glory, only on the great day of 
retribution. 

Whoever is acquainted with the situation of 
the' immigrants during the first half of the 
nineteenth century, will realize the poverty and 
privations with which the struggling Catholic 
congregations had to contend. In Oldenburg, the 
first cope used at benediction of the Blessed 
Sacrament was made of a shawl, the gift of a pious 
woman, Mrs. H. Fisse, and another, Mrs. C. 



20 Historical Sketch. 

Siefert, desirous of adding her share, cut the 
flowers from hers to adorn it. Though the papers 
of that day never mentioned this gift, it is, no 
doubt, recorded in the Book of Life, and will 
receive its reward from Him who said of the poor 
widow in the Temple, that she had given more 
than all the others. 

Obstacles and privations did not discourage the 
pious missionary, who was, in truth, a man after 
God's own heart, living by faith, and finding in 
his ardent love for God and man the strength and 
confidence necessary to sustain the heaviest burdens 
of life. His support at all times was his unfailing 
trust in God, which was rewarded by the success 
of all his undertakings. Dark as the future might 
appear to him, he never lost courage. Relying 
upon his divine vocation, he accomplished a work, 
on which the Almighty Himself has set the seal 
of His approval. 

After opening the school at Oldenburg, Father 
Rudolf resolved to leave the log church unfinished 
and to build a large new one of stone, and also a 
parsonage of modest dimension. To this purpose 
he devoted what was left of his paternal inherit- 
ance. Plans were selected and building operations 
were begun. The corner-stone was laid in 1846, 
and on the first Sunday of Advent in the same year, 
the first services were held in the new church, but 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 21 

not until the month of April, 1848, was it com- 
pleted in all its details. By that time the parsonage 
was also finished. Built, as it was, of stone and 
containing four large rooms, the simple people of 
the parish regarded it with wonder and remarked 
that their pastor must be, indeed, a rich man to be 
able to build such a fine house. 

In that same year, 1848, the celebrated Jesuit 
missionary, Rev. F. X. Weninger, preached a 
mission in the new church. It was his first mission 
in this country, in which he had arrived only a few 
months before, and the beginning of a missionary 
career of forty years, during which he tra\ r ersed 
the United States repeatedly from the extreme 
north to the distant south, and from ocean to ocean. 
On this occasion he expressed his desire to be 
buried at the foot of the memorial cross erected 
to mark his first mission in America. 

Besides the congregation at Oldenburg, Father 
Rudolf had to attend to a number of outlying 
missions, and he devoted as much time, labor and 
care to them as to the former. During his solitary 
travels from place to place, he was wont to recite 
the rosary aloud. Though unheard by men, his 
prayers ascended to heaven and brought many a 
stray soul back to God. Once as he rode through 
the woods praying aloud, as usual, an old farmer, 
who was looking for some timber to build a house, 



22 Historical Sketch. 

saw and heard him without being noticed by the Rev. 
Father. The good man, desirous of speaking to 
his Pastor, hid behind a tree to await the conclusion 
of his prayers, but he appeared so absorbed in God, 
that his parishoner could not summon courage to 
address him. 

Father Rudolf was truly a good shepherd of 
the souls entrusted to his care, and his devoted 
flock regarded him as such. In all their trials and 
difficulties they had recourse to him. Yet there 
were some who caused him great anxiety and 
trouble. Whenever the glory of God, or justice 
and right were at stake, he was fearless and out- 
spoken. In one of his missions there lived a 
Protestant family. The mother desired to become 
a Catholic, and was instructed and received into 
the Church by Father Rudolf. Shortly afterwards 
he was informed of a circumstance which proved 
that the marriage of the husband and wife in 
question was null and void, and told the woman 
that as a Catholic she was bound in conscience to 
a separation. She left him; in consequence of 
which, he threatened to shoot Father Rudolf. 
When the latter, on his next visit, approached the 
place, a number of his parishioners met him and 
begged him to return, as Mr. N. was about to kill 
him. But the fearless priest replied: "He may 
take my life, but my soul is not in his power." 



Sisters of St. Francis., Oldenburg, Ind. 23 

And he rode straightway to the enemy's house. 
Calling the man, he said to him : "I have been 
informed just now that you want to shoot me. Is 
it so?" The poor man was stunned. He could 
only stammer that he was, indeed, provoked 
because his wife had left him by order of the priest. 
Father Rudolf explained to him that he had not 
made the commandments of God or the Church, 
but that it was his duty as pastor to enforce their 
observance, and then told him for what reasons his 
wife was obliged to leave him, exhorting him at 
the same time to make his peace with God. Though 
the man remained obstinate, he never again troubled 
the good Pastor. 




CHAPTER IV. 

Authorization to Found a Convent. — Building It. — 
Arrival of Mother Teresa. — Vesting of the First 
Members. — Nezv Arrivals. — Removal to the Con- 
vent and Taking Charge of the School. 

JjBjH'E years 1848 and 1849 passed without 
1 having brought about the realization of 
Father Rudolf's clearest wish, that of founding a 
Community of Sisters of the Third Order Regular 
of St. Francis, for the education of the youth of 
Oldenburg and vicinity. With the permission of 
the Bishop of Vincennes, Right Rev. Maurice de 
St. Palais, he now addressed a letter to the 
Cardinal Protector of the Franciscan Order at 
Rome, in which he vividly described and truthfully 
stated the great difficulty of obtaining teachers for 
his poor schools, and entreated him to secure the 
Holy See's consent to the foundation of a Convent 
at Oldenburg for this purpose. His request was 
readily granted. 

After receiving the permission. Father Rudolf 
at once began preparations for the building of a 
Convent. Confidence in God and fervent zeal were 
his only capital. He wrote to Father Ambrose 

(24) 




J3 & 



> S 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg,, Ixd. 2o 

Buchmaier, a Franciscan missionary in New York 
City, asking him to secure some professed Sisters 
of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis, for 
the purpose of engaging" in the work. Whilst 
Father Rudolf proceeded with the building of the 
Convent, Father Buchmaier visited Europe and 
looked about for Sisters willing to come to Olden- 
burg. His efforts were crowned with success in 
Vienna, the Austrian capital. The Mother 
Superior of the Sisters of the Third Order in that 
city, proposed the matter to her Sisters for 
reconsideration. Two of the number volunteered 
to devote their services to the distant mission ; and 
after obtaining the consent of the Franciscan 
Provincial, they started for America. 

That these two Sisters had a true conception of 
the difficulties awaiting them is apparent from the 
fact that one of them, who in her humility thought 
herself not endowed with the requisite qualities, 
returned home before reaching the port of em- 
barkation. Her companion, Sister Teresa, con- 
tinued alone on the journey and arrived safe in 
Xew York in December, 1850. Father Buchmaier, 
who had meanwhile returned, received her most 
kindly, and sent her to her destination. 

Sister Teresa arrived at Oldenburg on January 
6th, 1 85 1. Father Rudolf welcomed her with a 
heart overflowing with gratitude to God for the 



26 Historical Sketch. 

realization of his long cherished hopes. Pending 
the completion of the Convent., he rented a small 
house, which was to serve as a temporary home for 
the new Community, for whilst awaiting Sister 
Teresa's arrival., he had accepted three postulants. 

They now began their conventual life, devoting 
their time to prayer, study and work. After the 
completion of the Convent building, they were to 
be formally installed as teachers of the parochial 
school. Even now they began a course of study 
and instruction in religion — to the great vexation 
of a certain gentleman, who opened an evening- 
school in opposition, which, however, soon proved 
a failure. 

On April 21st, Easter Monday, 185 1, the three 
postulants were invested with the religious habit 
and entered upon their novitiate. They were 
called Sisters Michaela, Gabriela and Josepha. At 
that time a professor by the name of Probst made 
his home with Father Rudolf. Studying for the 
priesthood, he had already received minor orders, 
when he lost the use of his right arm, which defect 
incapacitated him for the sacerdotal office. Father 
Rudolf had kindly received him into his house and 
employed him in giving instructions, and other 
duties. A learned and pious man, he was glad to 
show his gratitude to Father Rudolf by instructing 
the Sisters in pedagogics. They were eager to 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 27 

avail themselves of this opportunity of increasing 
their knowledge, for books on this and kindred 
topics were scarce amongst them. 

To Professor Probst, they are also indebted for 
guiding into their Community Miss Teresa Dreer, 
later Mother Antonia, whose acquaintance he had 
casually made at Rorschach, Switzerland. A 
young lady of superior education, gifted with noble 
qualities of mind and heart, she had resolved to 
enter the religous state and to devote her life to 
the education of youth, but had not yet made her 
choice of a particular Community. During his 
sojourn with Father Rudolf, the Professor wrote 
to her, describing the good she might accomplish 
in and for the struggling Community at Oldenburg. 
After consultation with her confessor, and with 
his approval, she departed for America, solely for 
the purpose of joining the Order in the Convent 
to which she had been invited. She arrived at 
Oldenburg, June ioth, 185 1, and was cordially 
received by Father Rudolf and the Sisters. 

October 31st, vigil of the feast of All Saints, 
the Sisters took possession of their new Convent. 
The Community consisted of five persons : Vener- 
able Mother Teresa, who had been chosen Superior 
General, three novices, and a postulant. The 
building was far from being completed, only the 
four walls and a roof constituted the present habita- 



28 Historical Sketch. 

tion. In the refectory the casements were without 
windows: a partition of rough boards whose wide 
chinks admitted the wind and rain, enclosed the 
school room. The winter of 185 1 was very 
severe, and for weeks the cold was intense. The 
cutting 1 north wind had free access to the scantilv 
furnished dwelling. The furniture consisted of a 
few trunks, some comforts and one bedstead. 
Boards nailed together did duty as bedsteads, 
tables and benches. By and by, a few tables and 
chairs were added, and the kitchen was furnished 
with the necessary utensils, which poor arrange- 
ments seemed a great improvement to the Sisters. 

In November, 185 1, the Sisters took definite 
charge of the parochial school. It then numbered 
twenty children, and each child was expected to 
pay a tuition fee of twenty-five cents per month. 
This, considering the small number of children, 
amounted but to a trifle, so that the Sisters 
depended for their support mainly on the charity 
of Father Rudolf and a few better-to-do families. 
Their scant provision was supplemented by hard 
manual labor and the most ingenious economy. 

Even the color of their religious habit is clue 
to their poverty. When the question presented 
itself whether to wear the traditional brown of the 
Franciscans, or black, the latter color was chosen 
because brown material was scarce and costly, 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 29 

whereas black was easily procurable at a reasonable 
figure. And once adopted, the color of the habit 
was never changed. 

Despite their poverty, the members of the 
young Community were contented and happy, for 
they loved and cherished Holy Poverty, the spouse 
of their Blessed Father St. Francis, in whose spirit 
they had entered upon their career of sacrifice and 
self-denial. Great as their trials and privations 
were, their consolations were still greater. Their 
zeal was extraordinary — a zeal not manifest in less 
fervent souls, and hence its reward was also extra- 
ordinary. 

The two lots on which the first Convent was 
built were purchased by Father Rudolf out of his 
own private funds, from the Bishop, to whom they 
had been deeded by a family in return for the board 
and tuition of their son in the seminary. 

In the course of time, as their means increased, 
the Sisters' surroundings became more comfortable. 



CHAPTER V. 

Aspect of the First Convent. — The Parlor. — The First 
Chapel. — The Blessed Sacrament in the Chapel. — 
The Cells. — The Refectory. — The Community 
Room. 

HE general aspect of the Convent at the end 
of the year 1851, was far from imposing — a 
stone house, two stories high, severe in its sim- 
plicity. At the entrance a small vestibule, which 
served also as a parlor, on the wall a crucifix and a 
crown of thorns; its furniture, a small table and 
three chairs. From the door, a stairway led to a 
corridor in the upper story, in which were situated 
the chapel and the cells. 

The Chapel was a room twelve feet long by 
fourteen wide. The altar was made of a few 
boards covered with green cloth. The tabernacle 
was a wooden box, lined with silk. Two wooden 
candle-sticks completed the outfit. A large turnip, 
hollowed out and covered with gilt paper, did duty 
as an altar lamp. Two pictures on the wall and a 
few rude benches ended the equipment. Here the 
Sisters recited the office and other community 
prayers. 

(30) 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 31 

Towards the end of 1852, the Bishop granted 
the Community the privilege of reserving the 
Blessed Sacrament in the Chapel. How fervently 
must their prayers have ascended to Heaven when 
they adored for the first time their Divine Lord 
dwelling amongst them in the Sacrament of His 
Love! Their poor Chapel now surpassed in real 
glory the splendors of Solomon's Temple ! 

The Sisters' lowly cells were furnished with a 
poor bed, consisting of a straw pallet, a pillow and 
a comfort, a small table with a crucifix and a copy 
of the "Following of Christ" on it, a priedieu, a 
chair and two sacred prints. 

MY CELL. 

small and cherished cell, 
So calm, so pure, so dear, 

1 love thee. O, so well, 
Because my Spouse dwells here. 

Away from wordly past, 

From pleasures that soon cloy. 
To thee I fled at last 

To find my sweetest joy. 

Rejoice, my soul, rejoice 

In sacred heavenly peace, 
Where wordly strife and noise 

And earthlv combats cease. 



32 



Historical Sketch. 

Thy life, espoused to God, 
Shall in this cell be spent, 

With consolations fraught 
That never, never end. 

'Tis but too true, alas. 
I know it but too well, 

That trials will not pass 
The door of this my cell. 

But Jesus dear is nigh 
To comfort and to aid, 

With power from on high, 
His loving, trusting maid. 

And when this life is past, 
When I receive His call, 

I'll hear the words at last, 
The sweetest words of all 



"Beloved and faithful spouse, 
O come, receive the crown 
Prepared in Heaven's house 

For such as thee, my own!" 

The refectory was as scantily furnished as the 
rest of the house. Long, rough boards served for 
a table, and the seats and reader's desk were of the 
same material. Pictures, representing the Last 
Supper and the Good Shepherd, hung on either 
side of the crucifix, forming the only ornaments 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldexburg, Ixd. 33 

on the walls. Strict silence was observed during 
meals, and the whole Community listened atten- 
tively to the spiritual reading. The fare was simple, 
yet nourishing, and spiced with acts of mortifica- 
tion and self-denial. 

The community room was set apart for the 
performance of various kinds of needlework and 
other community exercises. The furniture con- 
sisted of a long table of the same description as that 
in the refectory, with a bench on either side. The 
Sisters' privations seemed often insupportable, but 
when all human resources failed, God's help was 
always apparent, and their trust in Providence 
never was betraved. 




CHAPTER VI. 

Approbation by the Holy See and Authorization to 
Receive the Profession of Members. — An Academy 
Begun. — Its First Pupils. — Taking Charge of the 
District School. — Nocturnal Choir. — New Build- 
ings. — Reception of Orphans. 

f^HE Sisters lived contented and happy amid 
the poverty of their surroundings, grateful 
for the privilege of a Convent, in which they could 
prepare themselves without distractions for the 
duties of their vocation. In the beginning of 1852 
the Community received, in confirmation of the 
episcopal authorization, the approbation of the 
Holy See, with permission to admit novices to pro- 
fession. Thus the first step towards permanency 
had been made. 

The efforts of the Sisters now began to find 
recognition. We find, even at that early period, 
the humble beginnings of a boarding school, to 
which six pupils from the vicinity were admitted. 
The first two of these were Catherine Bennet, from 
Dover, Indiana, and Sarah Moormann, from 
Richmond, Indiana. Ten others followed soon 
afterwards. 







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Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 35 

June 2nd, 1852, the first three novices were 
admitted to profession, their vows being received 
by Father Rudolf and Mother Teresa. Rev. 
Father Stahl, of New Alsace, and Rev. Father 
Engeln, of St. Peter's, assisted at the ceremonies. 
The former delivered an eloquent sermon. August 
15th, feast of the Assumption of the Blessed 
Virgin, a postulant was vested with the religious 
habit and received the name of Sister Bernarcline, 
at present the oldest member of the Community. 
May God prolong her life for the celebration of her 
Golden Jubilee. December- 8th, feast of the 
Immaculate Conception, Sister Antonia pronounced 
her vows in presence of Father Rudolf, Mother 
Teresa and the Community. 

In the autumn of this year, the Sisters took 
charge of the district school. Catholics forming 
the population of the entire neighborhood, only 
Catholic children frequented the school, and it was 
easily arranged that the Sisters, after a successful 
examination, were appointed public teachers, with 
able Sister Antonia at their head. This arrange- 
ment continues to the mutual satisfaction of those 
interested at Oldenburg and in the neighboring 
villages to the present time. The number of pupils 
increased rapidly. The girls' class now comprised 
sixty pupils. The boys' class was taught by a male 
teacher. The Sisters devoted themselves with great 
zeal to their young charges. God's blessing rested 



36 Historical Sketch. 

visibly upon the Community. Privations, however, 
were still the Sisters' daily portion. Father Rudolf 
aided them to the full extent of his ability, but at 
times he himself had not the wherewithal to pay 
even his hired laborers. 

During the spring the Sisters began to cultivate 
the ground around the Convent. It was overgrown 
with weeds and briars, full of stones, holes and 
mounds, the removal of which proved a very diffi- 
cult task. They cheerfully performed this hard 
labor, hoping for God's blessing, and it was not 
withheld. The day when a postulant arrived, or a 
novice was admitted to profession, was always one 
of rejoicing for the whole Community. Notwith- 
standing their arduous labors, the Sisters arose at 
midnight to recite Matins and Lauds. In addition 
to the community prayers, each Sister had an hour's 
adoration assigned to her every day. The fasts 
prescribed by the Church and the Rule, were 
strictly observed by the Sisters. 

Father Buchmaier continued a true friend and 
helper of the Community. He sent a number of 
postulants, who became good, loyal and useful 
religious. He also provided them with a supply 
of office books, which, like so many other things, 
were scarce when the number of Sisters had 
increased. 

Good Mother Teresa's consolation at witness- 
ing the cheerful self-denial with which the Sisters 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 37 

endured their various privations, was great indeed. 
But her own example drew irresistibly, whilst her 
counsel and advice guided them. 

The year 1853 began auspiciously for the young 
Community. The Sisters' labors for the education 
of youth, and their other undertakings promised 
well. In May of that year, four postulants arrived 
from New York, who, assisted by Divine grace, 
had braved all obstacles in order to join the Com- 
munity, and cheerfully submitted, after their 
admission, to all the privations and austerities that 
awaited them. On the feast of St. Clare, August 
1 2th, five postulants were received into the novitiate 
and named Sisters Cecilia, Aloysia, Paula, Angela 
and Alphonsa. 

The Sisters' garden, which had cost them so 
much labor, now yielded a sufficient supply of 
vegetables for the wants of the Community. One 
moonlight night, when the Sisters arose for their 
usual midnight devotions, they heard a noise in 
the garden. On investigation, they found two 
men helping themselves to a wheelbarrow load of 
vegetables. Surprised by the Sisters, the men fled, 
leaving the wheelbarrow behind them. They had 
stolen it from Father Rudolf. 

On the feast of St. Francis, October 4th, a 
postulant from New York received the religious 
habit and the name of Sister Ludovica. Sister 
Bernardine was admitted to the profession of her 



38 Historical Sketch. 

vows on December 8th. Towards the close of the 
year 1853, the Community comprised thirteen 
members. Perpetual adoration of the Blessed Sac- 
rament was now introduced, and continued day and 
night without intermission. 

The number of Sisters steadily increased, and 
the educational training of the novices was 
entrusted to the intelligent and ardent Sister 
Antonia. 

It now became necessary to think of the 
enlargement of the Convent building. After 
mature deliberation, the addition of a wing was 
decided upon, and building operations were at once 
begun. 

About this time, in the spring of 1854, the 
Community bought forty acres of land, and because 
of their poverty they could not hire farm laborers, 
they cultivated the ground themselves. From this 
time forward the Sisters never suffered want. On 
the Convent grounds a barn and stable were built, 
and stock and poultry supplied, so that the Com- 
munity henceforth had a supply of milk, butter, 
eggs, etc. 

On the feast of St. Joseph, March 19th, two 
postulants were received and named, respectively, 
Sisters Stanislas and Veronica. The latter was 
Father Rudolf's niece, and had arrived from 
Europe within the preceding winter for the purpose 
of joining the Community. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ixd. 39 

The addition to the Convent was now in course 
of construction. Like the old part, it was built of 
stone and comprised two stories. The lower one 
contained a class room, the original one having 
long since become too small. A new Chapel was 
also provided. As remarked before of the original 
structure, the cells were in the second story. But 
for want of means, the building was not completed. 

October ist, four novices were admitted to pro- 
fession, and on November 15th, two postulants 
arrived from Battenheim, Alsace, Father Rudolf's 
birthplace. One of these, Miss Teresa Fischesser, 
who became ill during the voyage, died four months 
after her arrival. Hers was the first death that 
occurred in the Convent. As she had come with 
the intention of joining the Community, . she was 
invested with the religious habit on her deathbed, 
and received the name of Sister Brigitta. 

Notwithstanding the Community's poverty. 
Mother Teresa, at the suggestion of the benevolent 
Rev. Founder, sheltered from this year on, eleven 
needy little orphans. She began this work of 
charity, saying: "As our good God cares for us 
so well, we must show our gratitude by providing 
for these poor little ones." 

And Providence did, indeed, continue to bless 
the young Community, for at this period the Sisters 
began to receive calls to take charge of schools in 
other congregations. 



CHAPTER VII. 

A New Chapel. — The First and Second Mission 
School. — Daily Mass in the Chapel. — Retreats. — 
Other Mission Schools. 

{N the spring of 1855, the new building was com- 
pleted. The Chapel was a great improvement 
on the small room hitherto used as such. Its 
dimension was twenty by thirty feet. The altar, 
although simple, was painted a pure white, and the 
kneeling benches, too, were of a better style than 
the old ones. The lowly turnip lamp was replaced 
by one of glass. Two oil paintings, representing 
St. Francis and St. Clare, adorned the walls. The 
Sisters, who had hitherto gone to the parish church 
for the reception of the Sacraments, now received 
them in the Chapel, as Mass was celebrated there 
from time to time. 

In March two postulants were admitted to 
the novitiate, and were henceforth known as Sisters 
Gertrude and Elizabeth. The latter had met 
Mother Teresa aboard the ship, when crossing 
the ocean, and was so attracted towards her, that 
she felt happy in her presence only. After remain- 
ing in Xew York for some time, she decided to 

(40) 




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3 Sd 

£-1 >. 

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II 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ixd. 41 

enter a religious Community. Her confessor 
directed her to Oldenburg. Who can imagine her 
surprise and joy when she found Mother Teresa 
at the head of the Convent there! 

This year, in May. the Sisters took charge of 
their first mission school at the request of Rev. 
A. Bennet, pastor of the congregation at Dover, 
Indiana. Sisters Bernardine, Gabriela and Ver- 
onica were sent there. The classes comprised one 
hundred children. For want of an organist two 
low Masses had been celebrated heretofore on 
Sundays. After the Sisters' arrival, they instructed 
the children in singing, and soon they were suffi- 
ciently advanced to sing the Latin text at High 
Mass. Sister Veronica presided at the organ. At 
the end of June the classes were in excellent condi- 
tion. As to the school house, it was a miserable 
hut; without plastering or ceiling. A dwelling not 
having been provided for the Sisters, the Pastor 
gave up his own house to them and sought lodging 
elsewhere. The good priest was very poor, but did 
everything in his power to help the Sisters. For 
them it was a hard beginning, indeed, fraught with 
trials and privations. 

In July the Sisters returned to the mother-house 
for the retreat and vacation. Two postulants, 
germane sisters, received the religious habit and 
were called Sisters Rose and Rosalia. 



42 Historical Sketch. 

During the fall of this year, Rev. Leander 
Streber, O. F. M., of Louisville, Ky., requested 
the Sisters to found an establishment in that city. 
His petition had to be refused for want of a suffi- 
cient number of teachers. 

In September the Sisters returned to Dover, 
and at the urgent request of Rev. Father Koering, 
the Community took charge of the school at St. 
Leon, Indiana. The number of children there 
amounted to fifty. The school house and Sisters' 
dwelling were in a very poor condition. 

Such was the beginning of the Sisters' mission 
schools. They were untiring in teaching, and 
besides, devoted much time to the mission churches, 
decorating the altars and attending to the sacristy. 

We have already mentioned that the Sisters 
had Mass in their home Chapel only at intervals. 
Father Rudolf had, up to this time, no assistant, 
and besides Oldenburg, the spiritual care of a 
number of distant missions devolved upon him. In 
the autumn of 1855, he received an assistant in the 
person of Rev. P. Weber, and henceforth the 
Sisters enjoyed the inestimable privilege of attend- 
ing Mass in their Chapel every day. They duly 
esteemed this great grace, and were grateful, too, 
for the additional one of now being able to receive 
holy Communion at a regular hour, whereas here- 
tofore, they had been obliged to await Father 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 43 

Rudolf's return from his missions, which was often 
of necessity, very irregular. 

In November, Father Koering requested the 
Sisters to take charge of the schools at Brookville, 
Indiana. The number of pupils was about thirty, 
and each child was expected to pay thirty cents 
for tuition per month. At present this school 
numbers one hundred and thirty-five children, who 
are taught by three Sisters. Added to this is an 
Advanced and Commercial Course. At first, to 
their sore regret, the Sisters at Brookville had Mass 
only once a week, at which they also received holy 
Communion. 

About this time the number of Sisters in the 
mother-house was twenty-five, scarcely sufficient 
for their ever-increasing tasks, and it cost them 
many an act of heroic self-denial to perform their 
daily duties. A young Sister, having been appointed 
for the fourth time during the week to keep the 
night watch before the Blessed Sacrament, thought 
it rather hard to keep awake till midnight so often. 
After the Sisters had retired to rest, she knelt 
before the Tabernacle and prayed : "My dear Jesus, 
I can scarcely keep my eyes open. Waking or 
sleeping I am Thine, and my desire is, never to 
offend Thee. But pardon me, I must sleep a little 
while." Making the sign of the cross, she lay down 
before the altar and immediately fell asleep. She 



44 



Historical Sketch. 



awoke only when the clock struck one, and imme- 
diately hastend to the Mother Superior, to accuse 
herself of her fault, expecting a severe reprimand. 
But the good Mother merely said : "Sister, you 
have been in the Convent so long, and you surely 
have heard that the saints, after remaining whole 
nights in communion with God, complained that 
daybreak arrived so soon. Compare your fervor 
with theirs." This mild reproof was never for- 
gotten. 

At the close of this year the Academy had 
rwenty-three pupils, and the orphans' department, 
twelve. 

On April 16th, 1856, two postulants were 
admitted into the novitiate, and received the names 
of Sisters Philomena and Dorothea. The retreat 
was this year conducted by Father Rudolf himself, 
the exercises being held in the new Chapel. 

In September, the Sisters took charge of the 
school at Wolf's Creek, one of Father Koering's 
missions, with the agreement that the congregation 
provide a dwelling-house for them and furnish 
provisions, in addition to a tuition fee of ten cents 
per month for each child. But, alas! this agree- 
ment was soon forgotten. The school house and 
Sisters' dwelling were the property of a parishoner 
who was to receive a monthly rent of eight dollars. 
When this was no longer forthcoming, he seized, 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 45 

one evening, the Sisters' belongings, set them out 
into the public road, and ordered the Sisters them- 
selves to leave his premises at once. They returned 
to the mother-house, resigned to the decrees of 
Providence. 

The school in Blue Creek, or St. Peters, was 
also opened this year. In the fall, Rev. Father 
William Unterthiner, Superior of the Franciscans 
in Cincinnati, visited the Sisters. He remained 
three days, saying Mass in their Chapel and 
addressing the Community in most fervent and 
encouraging terms, daily. 

The history of the Community in the year 1856 
records no remarkable events. Silently and perse- 
veringly each Sister devoted herself to her 
particular duties, thus attaining that peace of mind 
with which God rewards those that give themselves 
unreservedlv to Him. 




CHAPTER VIII. 

Destruction of the Convent by Fire. — The Blessed 
Sacrament Saved. — The Sisters Sheltered. — Father 
Rudolf's and Father Weber's Generosity. — Forti- 
tude of the Sisters and their Pupils. — The School 
Continued. 

{jlftHE year 1857 opened auspiciously, but ere long 
a^ proved a most disastrous one for the Com- 
munity. The latter had attained comparative pros- 
perity at the cost of many a sacrifice and privation, 
and now numbered twenty-eight members, who 
had charge of a boarding school and the parish 
school at Oldenburg, and of five mission schools. 
Grateful to God for His blessings, the Sisters and 
their pupils regarded, next to Him, Father Rudolf 
as their greatest benefactor. Venerable Sister Ann 
was admitted to her religious Profession just three 
days before the terrible visitation. 

January 23rd, feast of the Espousals of the 
Blessed Virgin Mary, in the afternoon at two 
o'clock, at the daily hour of the great silence, when 
every inmate of the Convent was religiously intent 
on her duties assigned, the sudden cry of "Fire!" 
speedily followed by the ringing of the church bells, 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 47 

alarmed them. It was a bitter, cold day, and a deep 
snow covered the ground. From a defective flue 
the flames had been communicated to the attic of 
the Convent building, and soon the roof was a 
seething mass of fire. The cutting blast hastened 
the destruction. Means to extinguish the con- 
flagration were not at command, and soon a heap 
of blackened ruins marked the spot so recently the 
scene of activity, contentment and happiness. The 
people of the village and of the whole neighborhood 
had hastened to the scene of disaster, but all they 
could do, was to aid the Sisters in saving portions 
of furniture. They received the pupils and orphans 
into their own homes. Meanwhile the Sisters con- 
tinued to work in the cold and the snow, snatching 
from the ruins whatever they could of the goods 
they had acquired at the cost of so much labor and 
self-denial. 

When the alarm was given, Mother Teresa and 
another Sister were engaged in embroidering a 
chasuble. Not a thought entered their minds when 
they took up this work, that in a few hours their 
dear Chapel would be a heap of ruins. On seeing 
the flames, they hastily wrapped the chasuble and 
a few other articles in a blanket snatched from a 
bed, and hastened down stairs. Mother Teresa 
led. When they had hurried half way down the 
stairway, a piece of burning timber fell from the 



■48 Historical Sketch. 

attic and struck her companion. After advancing 
a few steps, Mother Teresa swooned and fell to the 
floor. She was carried to the parsonage, where 
good Father Weber placed his own room at her 
disposal, whilst he was content to retire to a small 
apartment near the sacristy. She rallied only the 
next day. Her first inquiry was, whether the 
Blessed Sacrament had been saved and how the 
Sister fared who had been struck by the falling 
timber. They informed her that Father Weber 
had braved the danger of entering the burning 
building, and had rescued the Blessed Sacrament, 
that the Sister had not been hurt, and that all the 
Sisters and children were removed to a -place of 
safety. The greater part of the furniture, a number 
of books, and the contents of the linen closet had 
been saved. Of the building, the smoldering ruins 
alone remained. The cruel flames had devoured 
the fruit of seven years' toil and privation. 

When evening spread its mantle of darkness 
over the scene of the disaster, the Sisters knew not 
where to turn for food and shelter. They were 
still among the ruins, resolved to remain together. 
A good woman, Mrs. Peine, brought them some 
hot milk and bread. The sorely tried Sisters grate- 
fully partook of this meagre meal, heaven's canopy 
their only shelter. Good Mrs. Peine also provided 
them with socks, a most welcome gift, indeed, as 
the Sisters had worked in the snow all afternoon 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 49 

and had no change of foot-wear. The physician 
and two Sisters were in constant attendance on 
Mother Superior Teresa. Indeed, all the Sisters 
seemed to have forgotten the calamity in their 
anxiety for the dear Mother's life. 

On the clay of the fire, Father Rudolf was at 
New Alsace attending to that mission, and on 
receiving the sad intelligence, he raised his eyes to 
Heaven and exclaimed, with Job : "The Lord gave, 
and the Lord hath taken away; as it hath pleased 
the Lord so is it clone; blessed be the name of the 
Lord." (Chap. II, 21.) And then set out imme- 
diately on his return with a heavy, though resigned 
heart. 

Meanwhile the Sisters found refuge in the old 
log church, which was still standing and had served 
as a sort of barn. They had saved some bedding 
from the flames, but there was no thought of sleep 
that night, though the Sisters were glad to be 
sheltered against the inclemency of the weather. 
Their breakfast, next morning, consisted of half a 
cup of coffee, their dinner of a dish of beans and a 
slice of bread. ' One Sister, who never before had 
relished beans, remarked : "Beans have never 
tasted as good as to-day." 

On returning", Father Rudolf placed his own 
house at the Sisters' disposal, reserving only one 
room for his private use. The attic of the old log- 
church was converted, into a dormitory for the 



50 Historical Sketch. 

Sisters. Classes for the Academy pupils were 
immediately resumed. A temporary room for the 
parish school was fitted up with remnants taken 
from the ruins, and lessons re-commenced. Mother 
Superior soon recovered, and devoted herself with 
unabated zeal to promote the welfare of the Com- 
munity. The patience and resignation with which 
the Sisters and pupils bore this trial, were a source 
of great consolation to her. Not a postulant, much 
less a novice, expressed a desire of returning home, 
and not one of the pupils left. On the contrary, 
a number of new ones applied for admission. 

The dear Sisters still living, who witnessed the 
destruction wrought by the flames, will never forget 
those days. Oh ! could they now embrace the dear 
departed, after the lapse of fifty years, on the very 
spot where they then stood, love of the Crucified 
and sisterly affection alone sustaining them in the 
hour of trial, how they would rejoice at the changes 
wrought since then, whilst contemplating the 
beautiful buildings and admiring the grand church 
with its majestic tower rising heavenward, and 
seeming to say: "There, on high, we shall meet 
our loved ones, to part with them no more!" The 
exquisite statue of Mary Immaculate, guarding the 
main entrance, is the gift of a dear pupil, a mute, 
but nevertheless most eloquent evidence of the affec- 
tionate attachment which binds the hearts of pupils 
and teachers to their Alma Mater. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldexburg, Ixd. 51 

AFTER THE FIRE. 
Out in the wintry blast 

Cutting and cold. 
Homeless and shelterless, 

Lambs without fold ! 

Before them 

The black, smoking ruins of home, 
And o'er them 

The darkening, night-curtained dome; 
Where shall they turn for shelter and rest? 
Where shall the turtle-dove find her a nest? 
Their toil and their waiting a smouldering heap ! 
]s this the harvest 

Their prayers and their patience shall reap? 
Have they not come to a call from above? 
Have they not followed their Crucified Love? 
Have not their hearts on God's altar been laid? 
Was not the holocaust 

Lovingly, trustingly, perfectly made? — 
Lo ! through the rifts of the deepening night 
Cometh the answer. In silvery light 
The stars of Orion's belt twinkle on high, 
A message of hope from the pitying sky : 
"Them whom God loveth He toucheth with pain, 
But crowneth their losses with heavenly gain." 

Soft on their hearts, as the dew on the flower, 

But low in the dust by the storm and the shower, 

God's peace brought new strength 

When Hope wrestled with Faith in that terrible hour. 
No vain repining ! With brave hearts and true, 
With hands e'en more willing than able to do, 
They wielded the weapons of labor and prayer 
Till, replacing the old, rose a new home more fair. 



CHAPTER IX. 

The New Convent. — A Collecting Tour. — Charitable 
Gifts of Benefactors at Home and Abroad. — 
Laying of the Corner-stone of the New Chapel. 
— The Feast of the Immaculate Conception. — St. 
Joseph's Convent Bell. — A Pipe Organ. 

ENEWED sacrifice and a repetition of the 
former privations were now in store for the 
sorely tried Community. Mother Teresa's trust in 
God was unwavering. She encouraged the Sisters, 
in the words of their saintly Founder: "Our good 
God has brought us together here; if this Com- 
munity is His work, He will help us, and we shall 
prosper; if it be the work of man, it will be 
dissolved. Let us pray that God's will be done." 
It was God's work, and it prospered. 

The walls of the ruined Convent had remained 
standing, but they were so insecure that they had 
to be torn down. The loss was a total one, as there 
was no insurance on the building. After due con- 
sideration, Father Rudolf and Mother Teresa 
resolved to rebuild the Convent. A week after the 

(-32) 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 53 

fire, lumber for the new building was cut in the 
neighboring- woods. 

Despite their poverty, the Sisters until now 
never had recourse to charity. But in their present, 
straitened circumstances, they resolved to apply to 
the generosity of good Catholics. In the spring. 
1857, Mother TeresaJ though ailing, went to Cin- 
cinnati accompanied by Sister Dorothea, to take up 
a collection in the archdiocese, having previously 
obtained Archbishop PurcelFs ready consent. He 
added a gift of ten dollars to his letter of recom- 
mendation. During their stay in Cincinnati, the 
Sisters were the recipients of the Duesterberg 
family's hospitality. They entered first upon this 
arduous task in St. John's parish, which was in 
charge of the Franciscan Fathers. The late Father 
Otho Jair, O. F. M., received them most kindly. 
Going from house to house, the Sisters collected 
twelve hundred dollars in the course of five weeks. 
With one exception, they met with great kindness 
when soliciting the Rev. Pastors' permission to 
collect in their parishes. Finally, as a result of 
their unwonted exertions, both the Venerable 
Mother and Sister fell ill, and were compelled to 
return to Oldenburg. 

Meanwhile, friends of the Rev. Founder, in 
Fort Wayne, contributed three hundred dollars to 
the building fund. The Missionary Association in 



54 Historical Sketch. 

Munich, Bavaria, and Vienna, Austria, each sent a 
check for two hundred dollars, with a box of books 
and other useful articles. 

Towards autumn, Mother Teresa's health had 
sufficiently improved to permit her to undertake 
another collecting tour. With Sister Rosalia for 
her companion, she went to St. Louis, Mo., for this 
purpose, and here, too, readily obtained the per- 
mission of Archbishop Kenrick and Vicar General 
Melcher, but some of the Rev. Rectors refused to 
allow them to collect in their parishes, and the result 
of three weeks' labor was the meagre sum of four 
hundred dollars. The names of their benefactors 
are certainly recorded in the Book of Life, and the 
Community continues to pray for them every day. 
A poor servant girl who was able to contribute only 
five cents, declared, that from that day on she was 
successful in everything she undertook. To-day she 
is a wealthy woman, and well known for her 
liberality towards the needy, and to poor churches. 

During the summer, 1857, work on the new 
building was continued, and November 19th it 
was sufficiently advanced to permit the Sisters to 
occupy it. True, cold and dampness caused much 
suffering, but did not interfere with the Sisters' 
work. Two rooms, divided by folding doors, were 
used as a Chapel, in which Mass was celebrated. 
The altar, benches and confessional that had been 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 55 

snatched from the fire, were now again used. A 
portion of the new Convent was divided into rooms 
for the use of the pupils and the orphans. In this 
year the following Sisters took the vows : Sister 
Elizabeth, April 22nd; Sisters Rose and Rosalia, 
November 19th; Sisters Vincentia, Mechtildis and 
Agatha, December 8th. 

In the spring, 1858, the corner-stone of a new 
and large Chapel was laid. The Convent building 
was pushed to completion. This year the Sisters, 
at the request of Rev. R. Weinzoepflen, took charge 
of the school at New Alsace. 

By December 8th, the Chapel was so far 
advanced that it could be used for divine service, 
and was accordingly dedicated, with all the 
solemnity possible under the circumstances. Most 
gladly would the Sisters have decorated it right 
royally for that day, the feast of the Immaculate 
Conception, but holy poverty had to serve as its 
choicest ornament, as the Community's means were 
exhausted. The good Sister Sacristan was not at 
all satisfied with the aspect of the bare walls, and 
contriving to find a piece of blue velvet, she trans- 
formed it into a sort of niche, which she decorated 
with white paper roses. True, the result was far 
from artistic, but we trust that our Immaculate 
Mother regarded rather the good will, than what 
it accomplished. 



56 Historical Sketch. 

About this time the Sisters also purchased a 
small but sweet-toned bell for the Chapel. It was 
blessed and called St. Joseph's Bell. It is the same 
that to-day resounds from the belfry of the magnifi- 
cent new Convent Church. 

Under the firm and guiding hand of Father 
Rudolf, stimulated by his untiring zeal, and led on 
by Mother Teresa's piety and prudence, the Com- 
munity prospered visibly. Schools were given in 
charge of the Sisters in various parishes, and the 
Academy attached to the Mother-house received a 
steady increase of pupils, twenty-seven being now 
enrolled. 

The following Sisters were admitted to holy 
Profession, in 1858: Sisters Margaret, Philomena 
and Dorothea, May 3d; Sister Agnes, October 15th. 

In January, 1859, death claimed Sister Philo- 
mena. She fell a victim to typhoid fever at New 
Alsace. Five weeks later Sister Gabriela died of 
an apoplectic stroke. The sad loss of these two 
good members was severely felt by the little Com- 
munity. 

In March, the Sisters were entrusted with the 
schools at Yorkville and Morris, Indiana. As the 
number of orphans continued to increase, a separate 
house was built for them, adjoining the Convent, 
a part of which was reserved for the Academy 
pupils. For the latter a separate building was 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldexburg, Ind. 57 

planned, but want of means compelled the Sisters 
to postpone its erection indefinitely. 

The feast of the Immaculate Conception was 
again drawing nigh, and Father Sigrist, of Indian- 
apolis, had been invited to deliver the festival 
sermon. The day before this feast Father Rudolf 
was stricken with typhoid fever. His recovery was 
declared impossible by the physicians. The Sisters, 
as was their wont in all troubles, had recourse to 
the Mother of Sorrows, and prayed that the precious 
life of their dear and blessed Founder might be 
spared. And contrary to all human expectation, 
the good Father recovered, and was again able to 
celebrate Mass on the feast of the Most Holy Name 
of Jesus, January 14th, i860. 

About this time the Chapel received a number 
of gifts. From Rorschach, Switzerland, the Bau- 
hoefer family sent two large, splendid oil 
paintings, one representing the stigmatization of 
St. Francis, the other, St. Elizabeth distributing 
bread to the poor, and a check for two hundred 
dollars. A chalice, a ciborium, a silk chasuble and 
a beautiful missal were presented by other bene- 
factors. 

December 18th, 1859, three Sisters set out f 01- 
St. Louis, Missouri, on the invitation of Rev. C. 
Doebbener, who placed them in charge of Holy 
Trinity's school. The ground had been donated, 



58 Historical Sketch. 

and the house bought for $6,000. They began to 
teach on January 2nd, i860, the classes comprising 
one hundred and thirty-five children. 

Thus, 1859 closed most auspiciously, and the 
new year was ushered in with good prospects. On 
the 2nd of February, i860, Sisters Raphaela and 
Petrina, and on the 2nd of July Sisters Johanna 
and Eustachia, made their final vows. Three of 
these noble souls are still actively at work as zealous 
and efficient as in the fervent days of early profes- 
sion. As the means increased, the Chapel was 
furnished with necessary articles. One of the first 
of these was a pipe organ, which was acquired at a 
cost of seven hundred dollars, a sum considered 
rather high at that time. Mother Teresa was most 
solicitous to have the services in the Chapel as 
solemn as possible. She devoted all the time she 
could spare from prayer and the training of her 
religious, to the making of church ornaments, 
vestments, banners, etc. 

But now the severest trial of all began to fore- 
cast its shadows on the young Community. Mother 
Teresa's health had been poor for several years. 
During the summer of i860, she was unable to 
leave her room. In the autumn she seemingly 
revived, and was able to assist at Mass on the feast 
of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin, September 
8th. But the improvement was of short duration. 
A few days later, and the final message came. 



CHAPTER X. 

Mother Teresa. — A Sketch of Her Life. — Her Char- 
acter. — Her Solicitude for the Community. — 
Called to Her Reward. 

ENERABLE MOTHER TERESA, Found- 
ress and first Superior General of the Olden- 
burg- Community of Sisters of St. Francis of the 
Third Order Regular, had the privilege of being- 
trained to piety and virtue from early childhood by 
<ruly Christian parents. At the early age of nine 
years she was permitted to receive her first holy 
Communion. Directed by a pious and enlightened 
confessor, she made rapid strides in perfection, so 
that her director permitted and counseled her, even 
whilst she was in her early girlhood, to receive holy 
Communion weekly. From her entrance into the 
Order till her happy death, daily confession and 
Communion were her privilege. She was an ardent 
lover of our Lord in the Eucharistic presence and 
of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Amongst her favorite 
devotions, those to the holy Angels and to the 
Saints of the Order, were the most prominent. Her 
obedience, her fervent love of God and her affection 

• (59) 



(30 Historical Sketch. 

for her spiritual children, her firm reliance on Prov- 
idence and her fortitude in trials, were conspicuous 
traits of character, admired in her by all who made 
her acquaintance. A gentle and mild mother to 
her spirtual daughters, she was anxiously solicitous 
for their spiritual and temporal welfare, and they 
in return loved and respected her most sincerely 
and devotedly. 

An intrepid and heroic soul. Mother Teresa was 
tireless, active and unswerving in her chosen course. 
Implicitly trusting in God's assistance in all her 
undertakings, she left it to Him to crown them 
with success. Great was her solicitude for the 
development of the Community, and for its firm 
establishment in the work to which it was pledged. 
Her spirit of sacrifice was never daunted, though 
even the necessaries of life were often wanting. 
Prayer and love for those committed to her care, 
were resources that never failed her, and her acts 
of self-denial were a well-spring of continual bless- 
ings. She infused her spirit into her daughters. 
From her they learned to cherish their holy Rule, 
to love prayer, and to trust in God. 

As was remarked above, it was one of her first 
cares that the Sisters should have a Chapel, be it 
ever so poor, in which they might assemble for 
prayer, thereby to draw courage and strength from 
above to persevere in their arduous vocation. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 61 

Mother Teresa was gifted with a fine voice, and 
sang in the choir until her last illness. The new 
organ arrived shortly before her death, and she 
heard it played but once. After it had been placed 
in position, she requested Sister Antonia to play 
the hymn : "Bin Bild ist mir in's Herz ge grab en" 
— "An linage graven in my Heart" , which she took 
up and sang with soulful interpretation. This was 
the last time that the Sisters had the pleasure 
of listening to the voice of their dearly beloved 
Mother, in the Chapel. A few moments before she 
breathed her last, she requested the Sister in 
attendance, good Sister Mechtildis, to repair to the 
Chapel and pray fervently in honor of the Five 
Wounds, for a happy death. 

Mother Teresa died peacefully, and resigned to 
the will of God, September 27th, i860, sincerely 
mourned and sadly missed by her spiritual 
daughters. 

O Mother dear, in memory's sacred shrine, 
No love shall ever be compared to thine; 
Yet, to requite thy gentle, loving care, 
We offer not vain praise, 'but fervent prayer. 

The remains of the Sisters who had died before 
Mother Teresa, had been interred in the parish 
cemetery. They were now taken up and placed 
in a vault which had been constructed for the pur- 



62 Historical Sketch. 

pose, on the Convent grounds. In the course of 
time a little Chapel was built over it. In this vault 
Mother Teresa's mortal remains were laid to rest. 
The deceased, up to this date are : Sisters Brigitta. 
Pacifica, Gabriela, Philomena, Agatha and Ven. 
Mother Teresa. At the time of Mother Teresa's 
death the Community numbered twenty-seven pro- 
fessed Sisters,, twelve novices and one postulant, 
and conducted six schools and one Academy. 

Later, when deaths in the Community increased, 
a cemetery was laid out in the Convent grounds. 

THE CONVENT BELL. 

Ring. O little Convent bell, 
Ring, and toll thy saddest knell! 
Death has robbed our garden here 
Of its choicest blossoms dear. 

Ring, but change thy mournful peal, 
Now the glory to reveal 
Of the Six that went before 
To the distant happy shore ! 



IflBj Second. 

1860—1870, 



CHAPTER I. 

Mother Antonia, Second Superior General. — A Pro- 
posed Removal Declined. — Purchase and Addition 
to the Building in St. Louis. 

FTER Mother Teresa's death. Sister Antonia 
was elected Superior General of the Com- 
munity, on the Feast of St. Michael. Trusting 
in God. she assumed the responsible duty of her 
new position. As related before, the Sisters had 
accepted December 18th, the charge of Holy Trinity 
School in St. Louis. The house that was to be their 
home was not finished on their arrival, and was so 
damp that they were obliged to keep up fire day 
and night. The number of pupils in the school was 
one hundred and thirty-five, not including the boys' 
class, which was taught by a male teacher. Dif- 
ficult as the beginning was, the school promised 
well. In the fall of i860, Father Rudolf visited 
the Sisters in St. Louis. 

During his sojourn in that city, he also called 
on Archbishop Kenrick. This distinguished pre- 
late urged him to transfer the Mother-house of his 
Community to St. Louis, and promised to aid him 
to the full extent of his ability if he did so. 

(65) 



6G Historical Sketch. 

But the Ordinary of Vincennes, the Right Rev. M. 
de St. Palais, refused to entertain the proposal. 
Mother Antonia also was averse to the change, 
and Father Rudolf respectfully declined the Arch- 
bishop's offer, stating that, all things considered, 
he preferred to have the establishment remain in 
the place where it had so often and in so signal a 
manner experienced God's special help. The insti- 
tution had grown to its present importance, only at 
the cost of many a sacrifice of labor and means, 
and its removal would certainly occasion numerous 
difficulties. 

The lot on which the Sisters' house, in St. 
Louis, stands was donated to them by Rev. Father 
Doebbener. The school increased so rapidly, that 
five Sisters were employed at the end of i860, and 
they still continue to enjoy a merited success. The 
number of pupils has reached seven hundred, the 
music class comprises forty-five. Besides the well- 
graded classes in the parochial course of studies, 
the Sisters teach all the higher branches, scientific 
and commercial, with drawing, painting in oil and 
water colors, embroidery, plain and fancy needle- 
work, etc. 

In 1884, the Community built an addition to the 
Sisters' house, embracing two large class rooms, 
a community room, a parlor, three music rooms, 
a spacious dormitory and a fine Chapel. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 67 

Among the reminiscences of this mission, the 
Silver Jubilee, or twenty-fifth anniversary of the 
election of His Holiness Pope Pius IX. to the 
supreme pontificate, holds a foremost place. The 
day, June 16th, 1871, was observed with great 
solemnity in all the churches of St. Louis, and 
Holy Trinity's was not to be outdone by any. The 
Sisters, too, joined in the universal celebration. 
Their house was illuminated in the evening, its 
forty windows displaying each thirty-six lighted 
candles. On an easel in the vestibule was placed 
a magnificent picture of the Holy Father, which, 
with its corona of lights and flowers, presented a 
grand appearance. 




CHAPTER II. 

Extension of the Community's JJ^ork. — New Schools. 
— Death of Three Sisters. — A House at St. Vin- 
cent's, Prescott, Indiana. 

ZjpT^V ITH the extension of the Sisters' sphere of 
vlAi/ action, the cares and labors of Mother 
Antonia increased. Up to her election to the office 
of Superior General, she had been Directress of 
the Academy. Now she appointed Sister Dorothea 
to that office, but retained an active part in the 
instruction of the novices, and frequently visited 
the Sisters at their various missions, affectionately 
encouraging them in the conscientious fulfillment 
of their various duties. She often exhorted them 
to pray, not only to their own guardian angels, but 
also to those of the children under their care. She 
particularly recommended devotion to St. Ann as 
a powerful means of success in the difficult work 
of education. 

During the fall of 1861, the Sisters were 
entrusted with the care of the parish schools at Xew 
Vienna, Iowa; Carrolton, Kentucky; Newport, 
Kentucky; and St. Vincent's, Prescott, Indiana. 
At the latter place, the Community built a house 
for the Sisters. The school at Newport was 

68 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 69 

accepted at the urgent request of Rev. Clement 
Scheve. 

In explanation of the solicitude which the 
Catholic Church bestows upon education, the fol- 
lowing remarks may not be amiss : 

The Catholic Church always has refused and 
always will refuse to concede, that education, 
divorced from Religion, fulfills the ideal of what 
education ought to be. Education divorced from 
Religion means, practically, education divorced 
from effective moral training. Hence the Catholic 
Church can never accept nor sanction any system 
of education which treats religion as a matter 
either of no importance or of secondary importance. 

Catholics are not opposed to universal educa- 
tion, nor to free education, nor to taxation for 
schools, nor to compulsory education, nor to 
methods and contrivances of whatever kind by 
which knowledge and enlightenment may be 
diffused through the masses of the people. In this 
direction, Catholics are willing and anxious to go 
as far as others. But they are opposed, necessarily 
and unalterably opposed, to any and all systems of 
education which exclude religious knowledge, or 
deny it to be the primal and most essential element 
of true human culture, and consequently insist that 
it should form the basis of instruction and disci- 
pline in the school, as in the family and Church. 



70 Historical Sketch. 

As religious instruction cannot be introduced 
into the public schools of this country for obvious 
reasons, Catholics see no other way to train their 
children in the manner described above than to 
establish their own schools, despite the hardships 
entailed on them by the support of a double system 
of schools — the public and the parochial. 

The Sisters of the Oldenburg Community have 
achieved blessed results, which are in a great 
measure due to the effective training they receive. 
During the novitiate they are, first of all, schooled 
in the interior life of the soul, ever recollected and 
devoted to prayer and meditation. This is the 
well-spring of their admirable success. In the 
novitiate at Oldenburg, the Sisters are trained, 
moreover, in the duties of their vocation. Of the 
religious is demanded not an ordinary service of 
God, but rather a higher and more perfect one, as 
is evident from the nature and character of religious 
life. This science of perfection in the service of 
God is so sublime, and at the same time so directly 
opposed to human nature, that whoever is well 
grounded in it will cheerfully fulfill all other 
obligations. Hence the importance attached to it 
in all religious communities. 

As to her duties in the school room, the novice 
is trained in everything pertaining to them. She 
attends a regular course of instruction, embracing 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 71 

all subjects that relate to pedagogy, and she soon 
learns this difficult task, because she had learned 
the more difficult one of self-denial. 

Thus we see that from the very foundation of 
the Community, the training of the subjects to be 
employed as teachers, has ever been regarded and 
treated as a matter of vital importance. In pro- 
portion to the development of the young Institution, 
the attention and care given to the regular Course 
of Study, were increased. Normals were inaug- 
urated at an early date, and zealously attended after 
the conclusion of each annual retreat. In connec- 
tion with these Normals, the examinations of 
teachers are held. They are conducted by the 
School Board, appointed by the Right Rev. Bishop, 
F. S. Chatard, the revered Prelate, so widely known 
for the interest he takes in educational subjects, 
who deigns, moreover, to take an active part in the 
exercises on these occasions. The careful grading 
of the teachers according to their progress in the 
various departments of study, serves as an incen- 
tive to renewed application. 

During the novitiate the novice is not under 
vows, but enjoys the full liberty of returning to 
the world at any time. Not until after pronounc- 
ing the perpetual vows, is she bound forever, on 
her part, to the religious state. As she is not 
coerced in any way to pronounce them, it will be 



72 Historical Sketch. 

perceived that if she does so, she renounces personal 
liberty by her own free will. 

During- 1861, two good and able members of 
the Community died within a short time of each 
other, Sisters Veronica and Alphonsa. The former 
was stationed at St. Louis, Mo., when called to her 
reward, and is buried in Calvary Cemetery of that 
city; the latter died in the Mother-house, Olden- 
burg. The 26th of May, 1861, Sisters Pacinca 
and Otillia were admitted to Profession. 









^W/^- 


" - .: ' ~— :. 




OX 



u 



CHAPTER III. 

First Public Commencement at the Academy. — New 
School at Covington, Kentucky. — Father Rudolfs 
Silver Jubilee. — First Academy Building — Prop- 
erty in St. Louis Enlarged. 

^JfftHE first public commencement exercises of the 
ar Oldenburg Academy were held towards the 
close of May, 1862. The examination in the 
Academy Course occupied the morning and after- 
noon sessions, concluding with the distribution of 
premiums. The beautiful dramas of "Murillo's 
Mulatto/' "Joan of Arc" and the "May Queen" 
were well rendered and most favorably received. 
A most appreciative audience graced the occasion. 
Since then similar exercises have taken place 
annually. 

At the request of Rev. Ferdinand Kuehr, of 
Mother of God's Church, Covington, Kentucky, 
the Sisters this year took charge of the girls' school 
of that parish, beginning with one hundred and fifty 
pupils. 

June 27th, 1862, the following Sisters made 
their vows : Sisters Ursula, Genevieve, Regina, 
Catherine, Clara and Brigitta; Sisters Euphrosina 

(73) 



74 Historical Sketch. 

and Mary Josepha in August. The latter died 
shortly after her profession, while stationed at 
Newport, Ky., and was there interred in the parish 
cemetery. 

August ioth, 1863. Rev. Father Francis 
Joseph Rudolf, the Founder and Spiritual Father 
of the Community, celebrated the Silver Jubilee of 
his ordination to the priesthood. The Sisters of 
Oldenburg, as well as the neighboring parishes of 
Enochsburg, Morris, St. Nicholas, St. Peters, St. 
Mary's of the Rock, and St. Philomena, observed 
this happy anniversary in the most solemn manner. 
Neither did Millhousen permit herself to be out- 
done by her sister missions, which were at one time 
under the firm and happy guidance of the zealous 
and saintly Rev. F. J. Rudolf. Clad in the beauti- 
ful and most costly sacerdotal vestments, which had 
been presented to him on this occasion, the venerable 
Jubilarian was conducted in procession from the 
Chapel to the parish church, which was tastefully 
decorated by the Sisters. They joined their most 
fervent thanksgivings with those which their 
Reverend Father and Pastor poured forth to God 
that day from a heart overflowing with gratitude. 
The festivities of the day concluded with a dramatic 
entertainment given by the pupils of the Academy. 
On this happy occasion, they surprised him with a 
line oil painting of himself, executed by the late and 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 75 

much lamented artist, John Schmidt, Covington, 
Kentucky. 

"O, twenty-five years full of labor and care, 

Yet happy and beautiful, gracious and fair ! 

Now wreathed in the Jubilee's silvery crown, 

With blessings much greater than wealth and renown ! 

"The obstacles conquered, the victory won, 
And yet still the noontide of life scarcely gone. 
God bless thee, and grant thee a ripe age's gold, 
With joys and with triumphs thy life to enfold!" 

In 1863, the number of pupils at the Oldenburg 
Academy had increased to such an extent, that a 
plan long before conceived had to be executed — 
that of erecting a separate Academy building. 
Work was begun at once and vigorously prose- 
cuted; and in October the building was ready for 
occupancy. The Rev. Founder well knew that 
even this large building would, in a short time, 
prove too small, but the funds were exhausted, and 
the needs of other houses counselled wise economy. 

The increase of pupils at Holy Trinity's School, 
St. Louis, made an addition to the grounds impera- 
tive, and an adjoining lot was purchased for the 
sum of six hundred dollars. 

The Community was now able to hire men for 
the farm work, therefore an additional tract of land 
was bought at Oldenburg, comprising forty acres. 



76 Historical Sketch. 

Its cultivation resulted in sufficient produce for the 
Community. 

The years of this decade are almost cloudless. 
True, the cloud of war then hung over the land, 
and even the retired Community of Oldenburg 
heard rumors of dangers and anxieties, but these 
did not interfere with the regular routine of life 
in Convent or school. Frequently, visitors called 
at the rural solitude to assist at Convent celebrations 
or Academy exercises, and carried away with them 
impressions which resulted in spreading" the Com- 
munity's reputation. 

The professions of this year were : March 25th, 
Sisters Julia, Mathilda and Bonaventura; June 27th, 
Sister Delphina; August 25th, Sister Crescentia; 
September 8th, Sister Barbara; December 30th, 
Sisters Blanche, Lucia and Amata. The novice, 
Sister Scholastica, died July 26th, same year. 




CHAPTER IV. 

Neiv Trials. — Acceptance of New Schools. — Increase 
of Pupils at St. Mary's School, Indianapolis. — 
Addition of an Academic Department. 

£{RHE placid course of events was, however, des- 
lr tined to be interrupted in 1864. Knowing well 
that God visits with trials and sufferings more fre- 
quently those whom He loves best, the Sisters 
bowed to the visitations of God, accepting them not 
only in the spirit of resignation, but also as an 
evidence of His growing love and favor. 

In February of this year, the dread scourge of 
small-pox appeared among the pupils. Three of 
them, and three Sisters were attacked in the most 
violent form. Mother Antonia took upon herself 
the care of the stricken, ministering to them with 
more than maternal tenderness, and all recovered. 
As a precaution, the Academy pupils, all but ten 
who preferred to remain, had been dismissed and 
classes were discontinued until April. 

The commencement exercises took place as 
usual at the end of June, and the Community's 
success in the Academic Department was, indeed, 

("> 



78 Historical Sketch. 

a source of gratification., but in no wise resulted 
to the detriment of the parochial schools. On the 
contrary, applications were constantly made to the 
Sisters for the acceptance of new schools. About 
this time, the Right Rev. A. Carrell, Bishop of 
Covington, Kentucky., urged the Sisters to accept 
the school at Ashland, Kentucky, but insurmount- 
able obstacles hindered the progress of the new 
mission., and they were obliged to withdraw to the 
mutual regret of the Bishop and the Sisters. In 
their own State of Indiana, however, the Sisters 
took charge of a number of schools. 

In the Fall, 1864, the Rev. S. Sigrist, of Indian- 
apolis, desired Sisters for the girls' school of his 
parish, St. Mary's. Two were sent, and opened the 
classes with sixty-three pupils, which number in a 
short time increased to one hundred and twenty- 
five, and a decade later had attained that of four 
hundred and sixty. Since then, however, a number 
of new parishes with schools were organized in the 
city, and a slight decrease in the attendance at St. 
Mary's school is noticeable. 

In the beginning of 1883, tne Sisters at Indianap- 
olis opened an academic class, and the number of its 
pupils averages between thirty and forty. The 
commercial branches, drawing, painting, needle- 
work, etc., are successfully taught, and the depart- 
ment of music alone, numbers about fifty pupils. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 79 



During the same year, 1864, the Sisters 
responded to an invitation extended to them by 
Rev. J. B. Seepe, and took charge of St. Andrew's 
school at Richmond, Indiana. Two Sisters opened 
the school there with one hundred and sixty pupils. 
At present seven teachers are employed, and they 
have besides a flourishing music class of thirty- 
seven pupils. 

The following Sisters made their profession in 
the course of this year : Sisters Hildegard and 
Emerentina, May 3rd, 1864; Sisters Isabella, Dom- 
inica, Seraphine, Eleonora, Sophia, Philomena, 
Augustina and Coletta, August 25th; Sisters 
Teresa and Florentine, December 20th, at St. 
Louis. 

This year was a sad one for the Community. 
Six of the most promising members were called 
to their reward — they are : Sisters Rose, Lucy, 
Brigitta, Regina, Francisca and Delphina. 

Up to this period, the Sisters had faithfully 
continued in the holy exercise of perpetual adora- 
tion by night and by day, regardless of the inclem- 
ency of the season. The Right Rev. Bishop, 
alarmed by the increased number of deaths, 
prohibited, to the great distress of the Sisters, 
nightly vigils before the Blessed Sacrament. 
Adoration was kept up during the day with una- 
bated fervor. 



CHAPTER V. 

Extension of the Academy Building. — St. Ann's 
Oratory. — More Schools Accepted. — A House 
Built in Indianapolis. 

HE reputation of the Oldenburg Convent as a 
seat of learning, refinement and piety was now 
established, and with it, confidence in its stability,, 
which an ever increasing number of pupils secured. 
The foundation of its religious spirit had been laid 
on the basis of Christian virtues, possessed in no 
mean degree by those heroic souls who stand as 
beacon lights in the haze that now envelops its 
early morning. 

In the trials of life, which came to them as they 
come to all, [Mother Antonia had recourse to her 
usual help in difficulties, prayer, long and fervent. 
In 1865. the dreaded disease of small-pox again 
broke out among the pupils. Three of them and 
two Sisters were attacked, but this time the malady 
appeared in a milder form. But few of the pupils 
left at their parents' request, and the classes were 
continued. The number of pupils had reached one 

(80) 




St. Mary's Academy, Indianapolis, Ind. 

Donor: Miss M. Miner. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 81 

hundred and seventeen, and the Academy building 



now proved inadequate for the accommodation of 
the pupils. In consequence an addition was built, 
corresponding in size and form with the old build- 
ing. It was completed in November. One of its 
rooms was arranged as an Oratory for the pupils. 
Two of these, both bearing the name of Elizabeth, 
claimed the privilege of furnishing it. They are 
still living, and are ladies of distinction. The 
Oratory w r as dedicated to St. Ann, the model of 
Christian teachers. 

Sweet happy spot, where holy peace forever 

Like a pure spirit broods with folded wings, 

Where virtue's radiant, ever-blooming flowers 

Are watched by Religion's crystal springs; 

Thou seemest in thy calm and quiet beauty 

From earth's wild strifes and sins and sorrows free; 

Thou reignest throned amid thy broad green woodlands 

A peaceful island in an emerald sea. 

And to my heart thou wilt be linked forever. 

Apart from all the gay world's gilded pleasures, 
Brave, patient souls within thy walls abide, 
Walking in toil and prayer and self-denial 
The lowly pathway of the Crucified ; 
And many a young heart nurtured by their kindness, 
Will think of them and thee when distant far. 
And look back to thy altar-lamp's pale shining, 
As once the shepherds looked to Bethlehem's star. 



82 Historical Sketch. 

Some of youth's brightest, happiest days have glided 
In thy still shades, like streams of sunshine, by; 
And to the heart thou wilt be linked forever 
By memories that cannot fade or die. 
The silent prayers, hopes and consolations, 
The precious lessons, and the words of cheer 
In hours of trial, when all around seemed dark, 
Have sanctified this spot and made it dear. 

In the fall of 1865, the Sisters took charge of 
the school at Lanesville, Indiana, at the request of 
Rev. A. Munschina. 

At Indianapolis, the increasing number of pupils 
necessitated the building of a large house for their 
and the Sisters' accommodation. The congregation 
contributed one thousand dollars towards its 
erection. 

In the course of the year, Sisters Melania, 
Veronica, Balbina, Victoria, Felicitas, Perpetua, 
Alphonsa, Helena and Clementina, took their vows 
August 12th; Sisters Beatrice and Anastasia, 
August 25th. Sister Augustina died at Newport, 
Ky., October 22nd; Sister Maria died as novice 
in July, at the Mother-house. 



CHAPTER VI. 

Father Rudolfs Death. 

" 'Tis hard to break the tender cord, 
"When love has bound the heart; 
'Tis hard to speak the farewell word, 
'O Christian soul, depart!' " 

|HE year 1866 was a fatal one for the Com- 
munity. Its noble Founder, good Father Ru- 
dolf, had been in ill health since the end of 1865. He 
was suffering from a severe cold, and his strength 
was visibly failing. He continued, however, to 
discharge his duties faithfully, regardless of cir- 
cumstances. His energetic will power struggled 
against the frequent fainting spells, induced by 
extreme debility, but to no avail. "It is better that 
I prepare for death," he remarked when the Sisters 
insisted on calling a physician; "for death there 
is no remedy." 

Father Rudolf preached his last sermon on 
Good Friday, 1866. The following days he spent 
almost entirely at the foot of the altar. Notwith- 
standing his great weakness, he repaired to one of 
his neighboring missions, Morris, for divine service 
on Easter morning. After this he returned to 
Oldenburg for solemn High Mass, at the close of 

• (83) 



8-4 Historical Sketch. 

which he blessed two statues, one of St. Ann, the 
other, of St. Elizabeth. On the Sunday after 
Easter he celebrated the early Mass in the parish 
church. After communion he was heard to pro- 
nounce thrice the name of Jesus, and, fainting, he 
sank to the floor. Recovering from the attack, he 
was extremely weak. Nevertheless, summoning all 
his courage and strength, he again said Mass in the 
Convent Chapel, on Wednesday, after which he was 
taken to Cincinnati, to be placed in the care of the 
best medical attendants. But all efforts were in 
vain, his condition continued to grow worse. He 
returned to Oldenburg to settle his temporalities and 
prepare for death. Having received the sacraments 
repeatedly, and for the last time from the hands of 
his colleague and bosom friend, the late Rev. Wein- 
zoepfeln, he departed this life on the 29th of May, 
1866, aged fifty-three years, one month and six days, 
in the twenty-second year of his uninterrupted labors 
at Oldenburg. 

The Very Rev. A. Scheideler, another warm 
friend of the deceased, assisted him to the very last. 
The dying Pastor, even in this supreme moment, 
was still solicitous for the spiritual needs of his 
parishioners. At his request, Father Weinzoepfeln 
had answered a sick call, and after some time, with 
his dying voice, inquired : "Has the poor woman 
received attention?" He then slept away in the 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 85 

Lord, while his assistant, Rev. W. Doyle, was offer- 
ing for him the Holy Sacrifice. 

Thus ended a life of restless activity for the 
promotion of God's glory and the salvation of souls. 
His burning zeal received its reward, and his mem- 
ory will remain forever in benediction with his 
grateful flock and spiritual daughters, for whom he 
did so much, and to whom he left his earthly posses- 
sions. Bishop de St. Palais, who visited him during 
his illness, assisted at the funeral, as did seventeen 
priests, some coming from a great distance. Father 
Rudolf's remains were laid to rest in the parish 
church, which he built, and which through his untir- 
ing efforts, had received the distinction and privilege 
of consecration. His tomb is under the sanctuary, 
next to the altar of the Blessed Virgin. ' A marble 
tablet marks the spot. After the funeral, at which 
Rev. S. Sigrist, of Indianapolis, preached the 
sermon, the Right Rev. Bishop remained for a few 
days, to assist the sorely tried Community with his 
counsel and advice in their deep grief at their irrep- 
arable loss. One consolation they had, mournful as 
it was, their revered and sainted Founder had always 
celebrated the feast of Corpus Christi with the great- 
est religious splendor; and it was on that feast, 
that his corpse lay in state in their Chapel, before 
being borne to the parish church for interment. 

In Father Rudolf, the Sisters lost a generous 



86 Historical Sketch. 

friend and true father, but gained, no doubt, a 
powerful intercessor at the throne of God. Yet, not 
a day passes on which the Sisters do not remember 
him in their prayers, that he may Rest in Peace ! 

REST IN PEACE. 

Thy peace, O Lord, be with the noble dead. 
The while his stainless record's page we read ! 
But sad the halls where he no more shall tread, 
The drooping hearts that miss the generous deed. 

Yet, give not way to grieving overmuch, 
Bereaved Community; for such as he 
Bring God's great kingdom near enough to touch 
The living proof of immortality. 




CHAPTER VII. 

Annual Retreat. — St. Aloysius School, Covington, 
Kentucky. — St. John's School, in the Same City. 
—Rev. Nicholas Wachtev, O. F. M., Father 
Rudolf's Successor. 

N July, 1866, the Sisters returned from their 
various missions to the mother-house. The 
annual retreat was conducted by Rev. Servatius 
Altmicks, O. F. M., of Teutopolis, Illinois. 

As the annual retreat will often be referred to 
in these pages, we deem it opportune to explain it 
here, once for all. 

But few people in the world understand what a 
spiritual retreat means. It means to retire, for a 
time, from the usual avocations and engagements 
of life into holy solitude, to treat with God on the 
affairs of eternity, on the world which is to come, 
on the "one thing necessary." Is it asking too much 
to lay aside, for a few days, the daily cares to settle 
the one affair for which alone we are in the world? 
Religious ha\ r e, indeed, renounced the world, as far 
as the one around them is concerned, but there is 
another world which they must also renounce. It 
is the world within, in the mind, heart and soul. A 

• (87) 



88 Historical Sketch. 

noble effort of the mind, without any religious aid, 
such as Faith supplies, may suffice when it is a ques- 
tion of abandoning parents, friends and companions, 
whom we loved ; but when it comes to dividing our 
own being as if with a sword — of abandoning for- 
ever, not the perishing things around us, but the 
living, active, imperious will within the heart, — who 
has power, and resolve and fortitude for an achieve- 
ment like this? Where find chains strong enough 
to bind down the world and passionate emotions 
to the dominion of the spiritual? So it is even in 
the religious state. After years of labor, after sub- 
duing the will by fast and labor and vigil, even 
then it may be seduced by errors and fancies most 
disastrous to its peace. Hence the Apostle says : 
"The natural man receiveth not the things which 
are the spirit of God." (I. Cor., II., n.) Nor is 
virtue to be depended upon, for nature rebels against 
it. Just at the moment when we imagine ourselves 
to be very humble, we may be suddenly overthrown 
by pride. Even in the most sacred places an idol 
may be set up in the heart, instead of Christ, the 
Lord. 

The retreat is intended for self-examination on 
these and kindred points, and the religious, having 
learned to know herself, will remove the obstacles 
from the path of perfection. She will take measures 
and look about for helps, to aid her in the future 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 89 

fulfillment of duty. Thus the time of retreat is a 
season of spiritual renovation, and one of the most 
powerful means of obtaining- that greatest of all 
graces, perseverance. Hence the importance attached 
to retreats in religious communities. Having learned 
the difficult task of self-denial, the religious finds 
every other duty comparatively easy. 

At the opening of the school term, 1866, the 
Sisters were placed in charge of the school of St. 
Aloysius parish, recently founded in Covington, 
Kentucky. They began the classes with one hundred 
and sixty children. At present the number of pupils 
amounts to seven hundred and forty and a flourish- 
ing Kindergarten. Eleven Sisters are now engaged 
in teaching. A class of thirty pupils receives instruc- 
tion in music; others are taught plain and fancy 
sewing, embroidery, etc. 

The school of St. John's parish, in the same city, 
was also placed in the Sisters' charge about the 
same time. 

After Father Rudolf's death, the Bishop of Vin- 
cennes, Right Rev. M. de St. Palais, invited the 
Franciscan Fathers of the Cincinnati Province to 
take charge of the parish and Sisters' Community, 
at Oldenburg. On August 7th, two Fathers arrived 
— Nicholas YVachter and Jacob Menchen, O. 
F. M. The former was appointed superior and 
pastor, and became as such, Father Rudolf's sue- 



90 Historical Sketch. 

cessor. After fulfilling the duties of his office 
with blessed results for nearly three years, he died 
at Cincinnati, for he had gone there for medical 
treatment, February 20th, 1869. 

He was succeeded by Father Louis Haverbeck. 
O. F. M., at present Provincial of the Franciscan 
Province of St. John the Baptist, who was spiritual 
Director of the Community for many years. Under 
his wise guidance, the Sisters continued to extend 
their work, and devoted themselves to it with zeal 
and perseverance. 

There was but one death in this year, Sister 
Gertrude, March 15th, at whose funeral the Rev. 
Founder officiated for the last time. A few days 
later, seven aspirants received the holy habit, the 
last ones received into the Sisterhood by the sainted 
Rev. Rector. Amongst the number was Sister 
Olivia, the present Mother General, to whom he had 
administered Holy Baptism and first Communion. 




CHAPTER VIII. 

The Chapel. — Schools at Lawrenceburg and Scottsz'ille, 
Indiana. — A Sisters' Dwelling in Brookville, Indi- 
ana. — A Lot Bought in Richmond, Indiana. 



-&■ 



f^HE Chapel, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin 
Alary, under the mystery of her Immaculate 
Conception, was the favorite spot of the whole Com- 
munity. There Sisters and pupils assembled in times 
of distress and rejoicing ; there they assisted at Mass 
every morning; there the Sisters made their daily 
meditation and recited the divine office; there, each 
year, their retreat was made. It was the Com- 
munity's sanctuary, and cherished as such. 

Hence, Mother Antonia was intent on embellish- 
ing it as much as possible, and every year saw some 
new article of furniture, or vestments, decorations, 
etc., added. Xow a new silver sanctuary lamp and 
new stations of the cross were placed in it. The 
former was donated, the latter cost three hundred 
and seventy-five dollars. A Communion rail, too, 
was purchased at a cost of ninety dollars. 

During this year the Sisters were called to con- 
duct the parish school at Lawrenceburg, Indiana. 
In March, two Sisters went to St. John's, Scottsville, 

mil 



92 Historical Sketch. 

Indiana, to make arrangements for the opening of a 
school in September. 

In Brookville, Indiana, the Sisters had hitherto 
lived in a dilapidated and cheerless old building; 
now Mother Antonia bought a spacious and com- 
fortable house for them. 

July 27th, 1867, the Right Rev. Bishop himself 
received the vows of fourteen Sisters. This good 
Prelate and Father loved to honor his spiritual 
daughters on these occasions, and to enhance the 
ceremonies by the additional charm of his lordly 
presence. 

The exterior circumstances attending the conse- 
cration of a soul to God may be more or less brilli- 
ant; the sacrifice is in the interior renouncement of 
the will in a holy self-denial, in the abandonment of 
hopes lortg cherished, in the rejection, in fine, of 
whatever fascinates the heart. This is the immola- 
tion, and a most marvelous achievement of grace, 
which triumphs over nature. This sacrifice is so 
astonishing, that worldlings do not believe in its 
sincerity, and invent all kinds of excuses and motives 
to degrade it. Insinuations of disappointment, pride, 
self-interest, and other base motives, are constantly 
alleged, but this attempt of the unbelievers to dis- 
honor it, only tends to establish the eminent virtue 
which these holy vows commemorate. The sacrifice 
is as honorable to the religion which inspires it, as 




Sisters' Residence, Brookville, Ind. 

St. Vincent's School, Prescott, Ind. 

St. Anthony's School, Evansville, 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 03 

it is to those whose submission it consecrates. The 
religion which recommends such sacrifices can alone 
give to humanity its highest degree of dignity and 
force. It is the triumph reserved for the Gospel 
and the Divine Spirit of Truth. 

In September, the Sisters who had remained in 
the mother-house during vacation, returned to their 
missions. 

The Sisters' dwelling in Richmond, Indiana, was 
also far from serviceable. Mother Antonia bought 
the lot on which it stood, with the intention of build- 
ing as soon as the Community's means should allow. 

At the mother-house, the laundry was provided 
with the latest improvements, in order to lessen the 
labor of the Sisters, for whose health and general 
welfare Mother Antonia was at all times most 
solicitous. 

• Sisters Emerentina and Catherine died during 
this year. 




CHAPTER IX. 

Schools in West Covington, Kentucky, and New 
Albany, Indiana. — Ground Added to the Convent 
Property.— A House in N-ew Albany. 

f"\HE annual return of the Sisters to the mother- 
house is, indeed, a blessing, which they enjoy 
with grateful sentiments. It fosters mutual charity, 
recalls memories of trials and joys borne together, 
and stimulates them to give each other a good exam- 
ple. Children returning home after a long absence, 
cannot be gladder than the Sisters are at the prospect 
of meeting again their dear Mother and their loved 
co-religious. 

As usual, one week of the vacation was devoted 
to the annual retreat. At its close the Right Rev. 
Bishop, who had returned from Rome, came to 
receive the vows of a number of Sisters. 

In September, the Sisters opened a school in 
West Covington, Kentucky, and in St. Mary's 
parish, New Albany, Indiana, where their old friend, 
Rev. C. Doebbener, was pastor now. There, the 
number of pupils was two hundred and eighty in the 
beginning, whilst now it comprises six classes, with 

(94) 





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St. Mary's Academy, New Albany, Ixd. 

Donor: Miss E. Reising. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ixd. 95 

three hundred and thirty children and six Sisters. 
They also conduct an academic course, and a music 
class of forty pupils, and teach sewing, embroid- 
ery, etc. 

At Oldenburg, Mother Antonia bought two lots 
adjoining the Convent. 

At Lawrenceburg, the Sisters' house was com- 
pleted. 

At Xew Albany, they purchased the imposing 
school building to relieve the financial embarrass- 
ment of the Rev. Pastor, C. Doebbener, to whom 
the}- owed a debt of gratitude. 

Sister Amelia died on All Soul's, 1868. 




^ 



CHAPTER X. 

A School at Evansville, Indiana. — The Chapel Fres- 
coed. — New Side Altars and Statues. — Retreat. — 
Votive Gift of the Community. 

ljN January, 1869, the Sisters were called to St. 
$. Mary's school. Evansville. Indiana, by Rev. F. 
Viefhaus. 

During this year the Convent Chapel at the 
mother-house was frescoed at a cost of three hundred 
dollars. For the sum of six hundred and fifty dollars 
two new side altars were erected and furnished with 
statues, one representing the Queen of Heaven, the 
other. St. Joseph. Each cost sixty dollars. 

The annual retreat, of this year,' held as usual 
during vacation, when all the Sisters were at home, 
was preached by Rev. Father Anselm Koch, O. F. 
M. At its close, the Right Rev. Bishop received the 
profession of a number of Sisters. 

The Right Rev. Bishop had announced his 
intention of going to Rome to assist at the Vatican 
Council, then summoned. In his farewell address 
to the Community he remarked that he knew not 
whether, or when he should return. Mother 

96 




St. [Mary's School, Evansville, Ind. 

Donors: Misses T. and K. Marshall. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 1)7 

Antonia humbly requested him to remember the 
Sisters at the sacred shrines in Europe, and besought 
him to present a votive offering in the name of the 
Community at the altar of the Blessed Virgin in 
the Church of our Lady of Victories in Paris, 
France. This votive gift consisted in a golden heart, 
natural size, in which was enclosed a list of all the 
professed Sisters then belonging to the Community. 
It was intended as a token of gratitude to our 
Immaculate Mother, for the many signal favors 
and blessings which the Sisters had received through 
her intercession. 

Later, the Right Rev. Bishop informed Mother 
Antonia by letter that he had executed the com- 
mission, and that he, moreover, offered up the holy 
sacrifice of Mass on the altar of the Blessed Virgin, 
in the famous shrine where he had deposited the 
gift, for the temporal and spiritual welfare of the 
Community, for which act of paternal kindness the 
Sisters were most grateful. 

Sisters Hildegard, Fidelia and Justina died in 
1869, 



J870— J880. 



CHAPTER I. 

Annual Retreat. — Schools at St. Joseph's Hill, Enochs- 
burg and Millhousen, Indiana. — Completion of the 
House at Xezc Albany. 

^jtjftHE annals of 1870 contain little to interest the 
Jr general reader. 

The retreat was this year conducted by Rev. 
Father Dionysius Abarth. O. F. M. Owing to the 
Bishop's absence, the profession which usually took 
place at its close, was postponed. 

Vacation passed only too quickly, and the Sisters 
returned to their duties in the school-room. 

Some time before the Sisters had bought a house 
and lot in the village of St. Joseph's Hill, Indiana, 
at which place they now opened a school. 

The Sisters were this year also called to Enochs- 
burg and Millhousen, Indiana, and soon the schools 
there were in successful operation, to the great satis- 
faction of the respective pastors, Rev. M. Heck and 
Rev. Dr. Hueser. 

The Sisters' house at Xew Albany was completed 
this year. 

Sisters Pacifica and Ludovica died in 1870. 

1 101 . 



CHAPTER II. 

Preparations for Building in Evansville, Indiana. — Re- 
ligious Solemnities During Vacation. — A Nczv 
Altar and Oil Painting in the Chapel. — School at 
St. Peter's, Missouri. 

IN the spring of 187 1 preparations for the building 
sL of a new house were made in Evansville, and 
work on it was begun. A lot adjoining the house in 
Indianapolis was also bought. 

The retreat was this year again conducted by 
Father Dionysius Abarth, O. F. M. The Right 
Rev. Bishop having returned from Rome, he came 
to receive the profession of twenty-two Sisters. The 
solemnity occurred on the feast of St. Ann, 
July 26th. 

Until now the Chapel still had the old high altar, 
which was never intended to remain permanently. 
A new one, Gothic in style, harmonizing with the 
architecture of the Chapel building and the side 
altars, was now erected. It cost eight hundred and 
fifty dollars. A fine altar-piece, by the noted New 
York artist, Lamprecht, and representing the 

(102) 









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Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 103 

Immaculate Conception, was its chief ornament. It 
now occupies a place of honor in the new Academy. 

In December, Rev. C. Rotter, formerly in New- 
port, Kentucky, and now pastor of St. Peter's, 
Missouri, in the archdiocese of St. Louis, sent an 
urgent petition for Sisters to take charge of his 
school. Mother Antonia sent three Sisters. 

In 1 87 1, the Death Angel claimed no victim. 




CHAPTER III. 
Mother Antonio's Last Illness, Death and Burial. 

(^ INCE the establishment of the Community. 
WD every decade was marked by severe loss through 
death. As we have seen. Mother Teresa, foundress 
and Superior General, departed this life during the 
first decade. During the second, death claimed 
Father Rudolf, the Founder and Spiritual Father 
of the Community. 

After his demise, Mother Antonia was the soul, 
the guiding spirit of the Sisterhood. Her motherly 
advice, and above all, her shining example, encour- 
aged her spiritual daughters to persevere in the path 
of perfection, and her influence was visible in the 
good results achieved by the Sisters in their parish 
schools and in the Academy. The latter now num- 
bered one hundred and thirty-live pupils. 

In January, 1872, Mother Antonia accepted the 
parish school at Batesville, Indiana, in charge of the 
Franciscan Fathers. Batesville is the railroad 
station for Oldenburg. Many a time Mother Antonia 
had there taken the train to visit her distant daugh- 
ters. A house of theirs at this place she suggested 

(101) 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 105 

would be of great convenience for awaiting the 
arrival and departure of trains, but when estab- 
lishing it she never thought, that for her another, 
farther journey, was near at hand. St. Louis 1 school 
at Batesville was the last one she accepted. 

March 22nd, in that year, the eve of the feast of 
the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 
which is celebrated on the Friday of Passion Week, 
Mother Antonia was in her usual health. But 
during the following night she suffered a severe 
attack of calculous colic. Without disturbing 
the Sisters, she arose at two o'clock in 
the morning, to take some medicine, and retired 
again. At the usual hour next morning- she 
went to the Chapel. At five o'clock she led in the 
Angelus prayer, with a clear, distinct voice. Then 
she whispered to Sister Dorothea, next to her, to 
lead in the meditation and recitation of the Office, 
and she left the Chapel. After Mass, the Sisters 
missed her, and one of them went to her room to 
look after her. She found her sitting in a chair, her 
head resting on another placed before her. Such a 
marked change had come over her features, that the 
Sister was alarmed, and inquired : "What ails you, 
dear Mother?" Though evidently suffering very 
much, she replied calmly and gently: "O, Sister, 
this is Dolorous Friday. I have been suffering since 
one o'clock this morning.'' 



106 Historical Sketch. 

The Sisters immediately called in the physician. 
His decision after the diagnosis was. that there was 
no immediate danger ; the Venerable Mother would 
be better the next day. But. alas, the contrary was 
the case. The pains increased alarmingly, and all 
remedies proved unavailing. The physician called 
several times during the day. and continued hopeful. 
Two Sisters remained constantly with their dear 
Mother, but could do little to mitigate her suffering. 
At midnight the}' perceived unmistakable symptoms, 
and knew that their worst fears were about to be 
realized. 

The physician was sent for in haste, and on his 
arrival he. too. expressed his alarm. He remained 
with her till three o'clock in the morning. The 
paroxysms became more frequent and painful, and 
at live o'clock a paralytic stroke lamed her right side. 
She remained conscious, but could speak but little 
because of her sufferings. She prayed silently, contin- 
ually invoking the Holy Xames of Jesus and Mary. 
At six o'clock she received the Sacraments of the 
dying, with great fervor. She remained in thanks- 
giving a long time after receiving the Holy 
Viaticum, in silent commune with God, in whose 
service she had spent her life. The Sisters departed 
from the loved presence with the faint hope that 
the efficacy of the Holy Sacrament might yet raise 
up the stricken servant of God. But prayer and 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 107 

hopes were in vain, heaven had whispered its com- 
mand, as it had spoken its invitation to her young 
heart, when, in the beautiful words of the Church 
it had said to her in her youth, "Veni sponsa mea, 
veni, coronaberis" — ''Come, my Spouse, come, thou 
shalt be crowned." In holy unselfishness, with no 
thought of the seemingly unfinished work she was 
leaving in the Community, for which she had so 
effectively labored, with no regret in her heart, and 
naught but peace in her saintly countenance, she 
joined in the prayers that were murmured in broken 
accents about her. After a time, the attacks returned, 
and continued until two o'clock in the afternoon, 
when she expired peacefully and placidly, her pure 
soul going forth to meet her Divine Saviour. Her 
testament to her mourning daughters was the same 
as that of the sainted Founder : "Pray, be faithful 
to duty. Trust in God.'' 

The Right Rev. Bishop Maurice de St. Palais, 
who had been informed of her illness, hastened to 
her side, but arrived too late to find her among the 
living. 

The solemn obsequies of Mother Antonia took 
place on Tuesday of Holy Week, March 26th, 1872. 
The Right Rev. Bishop celebrated Pontifical 
Requiem, and pronounced the absolution over the 
corpse. About twenty priests attended the funeral. 
The sermon was delivered by Rev. F. W. Pepersack, 



108 Historical Sketch. 

in the course of which he carried out the following 
beautiful simile : As the power of Elias of working 
miracles descended with his mantle upon Eliseus, in 
like manner should her beautiful example of every 
virtue, urge her children to follow faithfully in her 
footsteps. 

Venerable Mother Antonia was born at Flocken- 
bach, Wuertemberg, Germany, on May 25th, 1825. 
In 1 85 1, she left Europe with the express intention 
of joining the Community of Sisters of St. Francis 
at Oldenburg. Receiving the religious habit on 
December 8th, that year, she pronounced her vows 
at the end of her novitiate in 1852. Elected Superior 
General after Mother Teresa's death, she performed 
the duties of her onerous office for nearly twelve 
years, always an example of profound piety, humility 
and religious reserve. To her grace of person and 
manner was added the grace of a most devoted 
servant of God. Her eminent talent and wise 
prudence promoted the progress and influence of the 
Community to the greatest extent. God's blessing 
rested visibly on everything she undertook. Uniting 
maternal kindness with unwavering firmness, she 
attracted to her all hearts. She was, in truth, the 
whole Community's "dear Mother." Poor, strug- 
gling parishes had in her a firm friend. She often 
refused the schools of more prosperous outlook, in 
order to be able to send Sisters to the poorer classes. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 



109 



The needy and the orphans always found her ready 
to help them to the fullest extent of her ability. 

Gone, Mother dear, forever ! 

Our hearts are sad and sore. 
Some might have prized thee better, 

But none could love thee more. 

We miss thy voice of counsel, 

Thy ever busy hand, 
Thy guiding mind unbiased, 

And broad and free and grand. 

Farewell, farewell, O Mother, 

Rememb'ring thee, we pray 
At home with God to meet thee 

In realms of endless day. 




CHAPTER IV. 

Venerable Mother Michaela, Third Superior General. — 
The Community at the Beginning of Her Term. — 
New Missions. — A Cemetery. 



'•:;• 



FTER Mother Antonia's death, Sister Michaela 
was elected Superior General of the Com- 
munity. She was one of the three first novices that 
entered the Convent, and had long ago proven her- 
self one of its most faithful members. Sister 
Veronica, another niece of the Rev. Founder, was 
unanimously elected Assistant and appointed Direct- 
ress of the Academy. 

At the time of Sister Michaela's election, the 
Community numbered one hundred and seventeen 
professed Sisters, twenty-three novices and two 
postulants. After the expiration of Mother Mich- 
aela's first election, she was re-elected by a large 
majority. She appointed as her counsellors, Sisters 
Dorothea, Cecilia and Artiata. 

This year's retreat was held as usual. The Right 
Rev. Bishop made his customary canonical visita- 
tion, and admitted seventeen novices to profession. 

At the close of the vacation, Mother Michaela 
i no, 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. Ill 

sent the Sisters to their various Missions. In Sep- 
tember, Rev. Father Schnell, at Edinburgh and Rev. 
Father Missi, at North Vernon, Indiana, had their 
request for Sisters granted. This year additional 
ground was bought near the Convent, and a ceme- 
tery for the Community was laid out. The mortuary 
chapel that had been built over the old cemetery 
vault had become unsafe, and was removed. The 
remains of the Sisters buried there, were re-interred 
in the new cemetery, and a monument erected over 
the graves of Mother Teresa and Mother Antonia. 

Death's harvest among the Sisters was unusually 
great this year. Seven Sisters followed Mother 
Antonia into eternity. Painful losses, indeed! But 
God's loving hand always pours a healing balm into 
the wounds it inflicts for our good. Therefore, the 
Sisters bowed submissively to the rulings of His 
all-wise Providence. 




CHAPTER V. 

Nezv Addition to the Academy. — Profession. — A Nezv 
School at Shelbyz'ille, Indiana. 

^HE increasing number of Sisters and pupils 
again made an addition to the building impera- 
tive. On a bright morning in September, ground 
was broken on the east side of the Convent, for a 
large Academy building. Work was prosecuted as 
fast as possible, and the walls went up with as much 
speed as regard for their durability would permit. 
The Community offered prayers every day that God 
would vouchsafe to preserve the laborers from all 
accident. These were graciously heard, and no 
untoward event interrupted the w T ork. By the fol- 
lowing spring the building was under roof, and the 
plasterers and carpenters were busy in the interior, 
and it was ready for occupancy at the opening of the 
next scholastic year in September. 

The new building, which now forms the east 
wing of the Academy, one hundred and thirty feet 
long and fifty wide, was considered a marvel in size 
and equipment by the people of the surrounding 
country. For it must be remembered that at this 

(112) 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 113 

early day very few of the fine colleges and academies 
that now adorn the land, were yet in existence in our 
Western country. 

The first story is occupied entirely by a large 
auditorium, used for public gatherings, Commence- 
ments, etc. At present the second story is used 
exclusively for music rooms, with the exception of 
one apartment which is fitted up to represent the 
Grotto of Lourdes. 

Off the quiet corridor, where busy feet 
Pass and repass with noiseless step and fleet, 
Half hid in silent gloom, 

Our spotless Mother's own Retreat 
The little Grotto opes invitingly. 

There all our gayety is hushed to prayer, 
And petty passions fly and every childish care 
Is smoothed away, 

For in that hallowed presence fair 
The peace of Heaven perfumes all the air. 

In the third story is located a large and airy 
dormitory, with lavatory, bath-rooms, etc. All the 
modern improvements, as gas, water and heating 
apparatus, elevator, etc., are features of this build- 
ing, planned and executed without regard to cost, 
in order to make the pupils as comfortable as 
possible. 

The scholastic year closed as usual with befitting 



114 Historical Sketch. 

annual Commencement exercises, towards the end of 
June. The Sisters returned from their missions to 
spend their vacation and to renew their spirit in the 
exercises of the retreat. 

This annual return to their home is a source of 
consolation to both the Sisters and their Superiors. 
Hence we hope the kind reader will pardon its 
repeated mention in these pages. So highly valued 
is this privilege, that if a mission were too poor to 
pay the Sisters' way home, the Mother Superior 
would provide the means, so as not to deprive them 
of it. And the Sisters — how they prize this annual 
holiday season, fraught with so many blessings, 
spiritual and temporal ! 

At the close of the retreat, the Right Rev. Bishop 
received the profession of twelve Sisters. 

In this year, 1873, the Sisters accepted the school 
at Shelbyville, Indiana, at the instance of Rev. J. 
Rudolf, a worthy nephew of their highly revered 
Founder. 



CHAPTER VI. 

A Danger Averted. — Recall of the Sisters from the 
Covington Schools, One Excepted. — Consecration 
to the Sacred Heart. — New Heating Apparatus in 
the Chapel. — Blessing of the New Academy. 

§N the feast of St. Mary Magdalen, July 22nd, 
1874, twenty-two Sisters were admitted to the 
profession of their vows by the Right Rev. Bishop, 
amid the usual ceremonies. 

In the course of this simple narrative, v/e men- 
tioned the destruction of the Convent by fire, during 
the first decade of its existence, and described the 
sufferings and privations entailed thereby. We noted 
the sacrifices and self-denials which its rebuilding 
cost. We saw it prosper and expand to large dimen- 
sions, and extend its field of usefulness. And now, 
when it seemed firmly established, tranquilly intent 
on the fulfillment of its purpose, it was again threat- 
ened by the fire fiend. The signal intervention of 
Providence alone averted a disastrous conflagration. 
A pupil, seemingly urged by an irresistible, natural 
mania, twice applied the incendiary torch, once in 
January and again in February, 1875, but each time 
the fire was discovered before it had made great 
headway. Nevertheless, the damage done to cloth- 
ing, bedding, valuable embroidery, and sewing and 

10 (115) 



116 Historical Sketch. 

artists' material, was considerable. The originator 
— we hope she was irresponsible — was dismissed. 
This calamity necessitated a hasty removal to the 
new, but still unfinished building. Under the per- 
sonal supervision of Rev. Rector P. Louis Haver- 
beck, the structure was speedily completed. On the 
29th of June, 1875, the new Academy was solemnly 
dedicated by the Right Rev. Maurice de St. Palais. 
After this impressive ceremony, the annual Com- 
mencement exercises began, graced for the first time 
by the presence of the Right Rev. Bishop. 

As in the two preceding years, the retreat of this 
year was conducted by Father Dionysius Abarth, 
O. F. M. A zealous man of God, he gave his whole 
soul to this exacting work, and his words of advice, 
counsel and encouragement left an indelible im- 
pression upon the minds of his well-disposed hearers. 
At its close seven novices were professed, and five 
postulants received the religious habit. 

Also in 1874, the Right Rev. Bishop Toebbe, of 
Covington, Kentucky, gave the schools of his 
diocese in charge of the Sisters of Our Lady, who 
had recently arrived from Germany, and whose 
Superior was his own sister. This arrangement 
caused some dissatisfaction in St. Aloysius parish. 
Covington, and to preserve peace, the Oldenburg 
Sisters retained the charge of that school at the 
urgent request of the Bishop, who himself visited 
the Mother Superior to persuade her to do so. 




Rt. Rev. Maurice de St. Palais. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 117 

The Chapel was this year adorned with two new 
statues, representing, respectively, the Sacred Heart 
of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. 

By a special invitation of the Holy Father, Pope 
Pius IX., the churches, religous communities, 
institutions and congregations throughout the Chris- 
tian world were solemnly consecrated to the Sacred 
Heart of Jesus, in 1875. This invitation was hailed 
with great joy by the Community of Oldenburg, 
for their devotion to the Sacred Heart was always 
practised with great fervor. Love for the Immacu- 
late Mother had induced them to choose her for 
the Institution's patroness, and surely love for the 
Immaculate Mother can flow only from an intense 
love of the Divine Heart of her Adorable Son. 
Therefore, this consecration was greeted with joy. 
and made with due solemnity and fervor by the 
Sisters and their pupils. It was to perpetuate the 
memory of this event that the statues were erected. 
They were placed on suitable pedestals near the side 
altars. 

During the fall, a new heating apparatus was set 
up in the basement of the Chapel. It was a neces- 
sary improvement, appreciated by both Sisters and 
pupils. 

On the feast of the Immaculate Conception, 
titular of the Institution and the Chapel, eight 
postulants received the religious habit. 



CHAPTER VII. 

Ground Near St. Mary's Church, Indianapolis, Bought. 

— Commencement Exercises in the Academy. — 
Schools Accepted at St. Wendel and Greeusburg, 
Indiana, and at St. Bernard, Ohio. 

N the spring of 1876. the Community bought the 
lots now occupied by the school house and 
Sisters' dwelling in St. Mary's parish. Indianapolis. 
The former building was bought by the congregation 
and transformed into a school for boys. The Sisters 
had come to Indianapolis as early as 1864, but on 
account of the war and for want of means, they had 
to be content until now with cramped quarters in an 
unsuitable location. The new house was blessed 
on December 8th, the feast of the Immaculate 
Conception, and was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin 
under that title. 

The Commencement Exercises, though annu- 
ally of a most elevating character, this centennial 
year proved exceptionally fine. As they occur every 
year, a repeated description of them would be 
tedious, but the following account taken from the 
records of the day may give a general idea of the 

(118) 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 119 

exercises and exhibitions on these occasions, as 
they are conducted even up to this date. 

The Salutatory was well conceived and delivered. 
At this late date, however, a detailed description 
would be superfluous. Therefore, we confine our- 
selves to the statement that the literary skill and 
elocutionary power exhibited, in the various essays, 
proved a varied and exceedingly interesting display 
of the grace, talents and acquirements of the 
respective young ladies. Many evinced by the 
correctness of their elocution, the truthfulness of 
their tones and the ease and dignity of their man- 
ners, an unusual degree of cultivation. The devel- 
opment of talent here shown was certainly the best 
evidence of the skill and judgment exercised in the 
training of these successful pupils. 

An Allegory of the Thirteen Original States, 
written especially for the occasion in commemoration 
of the Centennial, was rendered with consummate 
skill and excellent discrimination, admirable taste 
and expression. It manifested, furthermore, the 
true patriotism which the pupils imbibe with the 
very atmosphere of the classic halls of the Olden- 
burg Academy, ever faithful to God, Truth and 
Country. 

The display of skill in the ornamental depart- 
ment was a revelation to the visitors, as they could 
hardly expect from pupils, in so short a period, so 



120 Historical Sketch. 

large and beautiful a variety of finished specimens 
of difficult art. Beautiful tapestry, pictures of 
large size, for various uses, all in genuine good taste, 
were especially a source of admiration to the lady 
guests. 

The needlework was graceful, the execution so 
fine and regular as to suggest the idea that it looked 
more the work of machinery than the handiwork of 
playful, happy school girls. 

The large and tastefully arranged pieces of 
ornamental and plain penmanship were gratifying 
proofs of great skill and care on the part of the 
teachers, as well as of progress of the pupils. 
Indeed, all the scholars delighted their friends by 
their success in this very necessary accomplishment. 

In the department of vocal music, several young 
ladies developed, in a most happy manner, the 
heavenly faculty of a clear, melodious and sympa- 
thetic voice. In the class of instrumental music, 
a number of pupils executed pieces of much power 
and beauty, and some of considerable difficulty, in a 
manner rarely surpassed by students so young. 

In this year, the schools at St. YVendel and 
Greensburg, in the State of Indiana, and at St. 
Bernard, in the State of Ohio, were entrusted to 
the Sisters. The latter place is a suburb of 
Cincinnati, and was the Sisters' first foundation in 
that archdiocese. The parish was the first to be 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 



121 



founded outside of the city by the Franciscan 
Fathers. From poor beginnings, it slowly rose to 
its present prominence. The first church, a small 
frame structure, was erected in 1850, and dedicated 
to St. Clement, Pope and Martyr. At the time of 
the Sisters' arrival, the school numbered one hun- 
dred and twenty-five children, who were taught by 
two Sisters; now the number has reached four 
hundred and fifty, and is in charge of seven Sisters. 




CHAPTER VIII. 

Annual Examination and Commencement. — Death of 
Bishop Maurice de St. Palais. — Scarcity of Teach- 
ers in the Community. 

HOWARDS the end of June, 1877, when the 
annual examination and Commencement exer- 
cises were held at the Academy, the festivities on 
this occasion were suddenly interrupted by the 
announcement that the Right Rev. Bishop of 
Vincennes had suffered an apoplectic stroke, and 
was dying. This message was soon followed by 
the still sadder one of his death. Both Sisters and 
pupils were overwhelmed with sorrow. They loved 
Bishop de St. Palais as a kind father and dear 
friend, to whose visits they had always looked for- 
ward with the greatest delight. The Chapel was 
draped in mourning, and a solemn Requiem Mass 
was celebrated for the repose of his soul. His 
memory will ever be held in benediction. 

Maurice de St. Palais was born at La Savetat, 
near Tours in France, November 15th, 181 1. He 
was destined to become one of the brightest orna- 
ments of the Catholic hierarchy in America. The 

(122) 




s 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 123 

scion of a noble family and an ancient house, that 
had given many illustrious men to the Church 
and State, the youth was early remarkable for the 
possession of that elevation of thought and single- 
ness of purpose, which have distinguished so many 
of his rank and nationality, at home and abroad. 
Thoroughly educated at St. Sulpice, Paris, he was 
ordained priest in May, 1836. He cheerfully 
resigned the comforts and attractions of home, 
friends and country, for the laborious life of a 
missionary, in what was then looked upon as the 
wilds of the United States. 

Under the guidance of the Venerable Bishop 
Brute, who two years previously had been appointed 
to the new See of Vincennes, Indiana, and accom- 
panied by twenty-one other young ecclesiastics, 
Father de St. Palais reached this country, and 
immediately entered upon the performance of his 
duties. His first stations were at Bogg's Creek 
and Mount Pleasant, Indiana, where he built two 
churches and collected around them comparatively 
large congregations. He was next sent to Chicago, 
Illinois, then a mere village, where he erected St. 
Mary's church, which afterwards became the first 
cathedral. Again we find him in Indiana, at 
Logansport, which, with its outlying missions and 
small churches and chapels, remained for several 
years under his wise and beneficent jurisdiction. 



124 Historical Sketch. 

Madison, Indiana, a growing and prosperous town, 
was next the scene of his labors, till, on the accession 
of Bishop Bazin to the See of Vincennes, 1847, ne 
was called to that city and appointed Vicar General 
and Superior of the Theological Seminary. In both 
these positions his prudence, energy and judgment 
were so conspicuous, that, upon the untimely death 
of Bishop Bazin, he was nominated administrator 
of the diocese, and acted in that capacity till October 
3d, 1848, when he was preconized Bishop of 
Vincennes. His consecration took place on Jan- 
uary 14th, 1849. 

Diligent and laborious as was his life as a priest, 
his career as a prelate far surpassed it in zeal, 
devotion and personal sacrifice. Though circum- 
scribed in its limits by the creation of other dioceses, 
that of Vincennes still presented a large field for 
missionary labor, and Bishop de St. Palais cultivated 
it to the utmost, from the day of his consecration 
to almost the very last hour of his life. Scattered, 
little groups and single Catholic families were 
collected into orderly and compact congregations; 
new missions were founded in the most remote 
places, and old ones became well defined parishes; 
churches sprang up rapidly, and priests from every 
quarter were found to occupy them. Nor were 
the wants of the ignorant, the poor and the 
afflicted, neglected. Besides the diocesan seminary 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. L25 

and the monastery of Benedictines, at St. Meinrad, 
female Academies were opened at St. Mary's of the 
Woods, Vincennes, Terre Haute, Indianapolis, 
Washington, Evansville and Oldenburg, while 
parochial schools were attached to every church 
and nearly every station in the diocese. The Little 
Sisters of the Poor, the Sisters of Charity, and 
Sisters of the Good Shepherd, were introduced and 
encouraged, two hospitals were opened and two 
splendid orphan asylums built, one of them erected 
entirely out of the good Bishop's own means. 

It was while thus engaged in the arduous duties 
of his sacred calling at St. Mary's of the Woods, 
near Terre Haute, that Bishop de St. Palais was 
stricken down, on June 28th, 1877. 

On July 3d, the last solemn ceremonies were 
performed over the mortal remains of the lamented 
prelate, and his body was laid to rest under the high 
altar of the cathedral at \ nicennes, where for more 
than twenty-eight years he had offered up his 
prayers for the welfare of his spiritual children. 

To the Community of Oldenburg, the charge 
of eleven schools was offered during the year 1877, 
but had to be declined for want of a sufficient 
number of teachers. 



CHAPTER IX. 

Memorial Services for His Holiness, Pope Pius IX. — 
Continued Scarcity of Teachers. — A Sisters' 
Dwelling Built in Richmond, Indiana. 

IS holiness, Pope Pius IX., was called to his 
eternal reward, after a most successful pon- 
tificate of extraordinary length, on February 7th, 
1878. Soon after receiving the announcement of 
his death, the Community observed a solemn 
triduum of obsequies. Every morning levitical High 
Mass was celebrated, at which the Sisters offered up 
Holy Communion for the repose of his soul. They 
also recited the Office of the Dead during these three 
days. 

In August, the Right Rev. Bishop Spalding, of 
Peoria, Illinois, addressed Mother Superior, entreat- 
ing her to send Sisters to take charge of several 
schools in his diocese, but the number of Sisters 
was not large enough to warrant the immediate 
compliance with his request, and the acceptance of 
the offer was deferred. 

In Richmond, Indiana, the Community this 
year built a comfortable dwelling, after having long 
suffered for want of room. 

( 126) 




Pope Pius IX. 




j2 o 



CHAPTER X. 

The Right Rev. Francis S. Chatard, Bishop of Vin- 
cennes, Visits the Community. • 

§N the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin 
Mary, September 8th, 1878, the new Bishop 
of Vincennes, Right Rev. Francis Silas Chatard, 
visited the Community for the first time. He 
inspected the various departments of the Convent 
and Academy, and expressed himself as well 
pleased with everything. 

The Right Rev. Francis Silas Chatard, fifth 
Bishop of Vincennes, was born in Baltimore, Mary- 
land, on December 13th, 1834. He was educated 
at Mt. St. Mary's College, Maryland, whence he 
was graduated in 1853. He then devoted himself 
to the study of medicine, and attended lectures in 
the University of Maryland. But Providence had 
another mission for him, and in 1857, his thoughts 
and inclinations took a decided direction towards 
the Church, and he resolved to study for the 
priesthood. Archbishop Kenrick, of Baltimore, 
sent him to the Urban College of the Propaganda 
in Rome. Here he remained six years, was 
ordained priest and received the title of Doctor of 
Divinity. In November, 1863, he was appointed 

(127) 



]2S Historical Sketch. 

Vice-Rector of the American College at Rome, and 
in May, 1868, assumed charge as Rector. He 
remained at its head for a period of ten years, and 
brought the Institution to a high state of perfection. 
In 1878, he undertook a collection tour in the 
United States to relieve the American College of 
its debt. On his return to Rome, Pope Pius IX. 
appointed him Bishop of Vincennes, Indiana. 

The consecration of Bishop Chatard by Car- 
dinal Franchi, prefect of the Propaganda at Rome, 
occurred on May 12th, 1878. Immediately after 
his consecration, he issued his first pastoral letter, 
of which a newspaper of the day remarked : "It 
is strong in doctrine, sweet in exhortation, loving in 
memories of the past, and exceedingly admirable 
in definitions." The Bishop announced his intention 
of making Indianapolis, the capital of Indiana, his 
residence, though he would retain the title of 
"Bishop of Vincennes." He reached his diocese 
in the month of August, and on the 17th he was 
received in Indianapolis with great demonstrations 
of joy. 

\\ nat he has since achieved fills a glorious page 
in the history of the Church in the United States. 
It is not within the scope of our little book to dwell 
on his success, but the evidence thereof is all around 
us. The only drop of bitterness in our cup of joy 
is, that the Right Rev. Bishop, after a most blessed 




Rt. Rev. Francis S. Chatard. 




Pope Leo XIII. 



Ststers of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 12J) 

career in his high office, feels the effect of his earlier 
devotion to duty on his constitution. May he be 
spared to his diocese for many years to come. 

In the Spring of 1898, a brief from the Holy 
Father, Pope Leo XIII. , was received by Bishop 
Chatard, authorizing him to change the name of 
the diocese from that of Vincennes to that of 
Indianapolis. 

April 2 1 st, 1879, the Right Rev. Bishop con- 
ferred the religious habit for the first time on 
Postulants of the Oldenburg Community. Eight 
young ladies were received into the novitiate on the 
occasion. August 2, 1879, twelve novices were 
admitted to profession. 

The spiritual exercises of this year's retreat 
were conducted by Rev. Father Port, S. J., at the 
beginning of July. 

Since the foundation of the Community, the 
Sisters, after the completion of the novitiate, had 
pronounced perpetual vows. From 1879 forward, 
in compliance with a decree from Rome, the vows 
are pronounced first for three, then for five years, 
and thereafter for life. This rule applies to all 
female religious Communities. 

Henceforward, the midnight Mass was cele- 
brated on Christmas night only for the Community, 
the doors being closed to seculars by order of the 
Right Rev. Bishop. 



WfiKT ffOURTH. 

1880— \ 890. 



CHAPTER I. 

Progress of the Community. — A New Building. — Con- 
secration of the New Cemetery. — Acceptance of a 
School. 

^HE prosperity of the Community was proved to 
be very gratifying. The number of members 
increased to such an extent, that the Sisters were ser- 
iously inconvenienced by want of room, although 
building operations had scarcely ever ceased during 
the last decade. The Right Rev. Bishop now en- 
couraged the Community to erect a large, additional 
building, which was to have the form of an L. It was 
constructed according to the plan proposed, and is 
a solid edifice, affording sufficient room for the 
purposes for which it was intended. In a niche 
above the entrance is enthroned a beautiful statue 
of St. Francis, representing him holding the holy 
Rule in one hand, and with the other blessing his 
children, whom he regards with an expression of 
love. The space between this and the old building 
was laid out as a garden and recreation ground for 
the Sisters. Any one ever chancing to cast a 

12 (133) 



134 Historical Sketch. 

glimpse at this retired spot during recreation hours 
will be convinced that the words of St. Francis, 
which he adapted from St. Paul, have come true: 
"And whosoever shall follow this rule, peace on 
them, and mercy." (Gal. vi v 16.) A turret on 
the roof of this building contains St. Francis' bell 
that calls the Sisters to their Community exercises. 

At the Commencement Exercises, which were 
most interesting and of high literary merit, held 
towards the end of June, the Right Rev. Bishop and 
twenty-eight priests assisted. As a staunch sup- 
porter of Catholic education, the Bishop had made 
it a practice to honor the final exercises of the 
scholastic year by his presence, thus proving his 
appreciation of the Sisters' efforts in the cause of 
elementary and higher education, to which they 
devote their lives. 

The cemetery within the Convent enclosure was 
consecrated by the Rt. Rev. Bishop during vacation. 
A crucifix, fifteen feet high, with a life-sized corpus, 
marked this sacred resting place of the deceased 
Sisters. 

Father Louis Haverbeck, O. F. M., who had 
been the Spiritual Director of the Community dur- 
ing the last ten years, was now relieved of his 
office, and succeeded by Rev. Ambrose Sanning, 
O. F. M., who, after a period of two years, was in 
turn succeeded by Father Peter Baptist Englert, O. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 



135 



F. M., who later became Definitor General of the 
Franciscan Order in Rome. 

In the Spring of this year, the congregation of 
St. Bridget's at Indianapolis, donated to the Com- 
munity the site for a school and Sister's house. 
Building was begun at once, and the school was 
opened in the following January, 1881. 




CHAPTER II. 

St. Bridget's School, Indianapolis. — Solemnities in the 
Chapel. — Other Schools Opened. 

§T. BRIDGET'S school at Indianapolis was 
opened with one hundred and twenty children 
and two Sisters, much to the satisfaction of the 
zealous pastor, Rev. D. Curran. To-day it numbers 
two hundred and fifty pupils, and is divided into 
five classes, with as many Sisters. Three of its 
first pupils, passing the examination with great 
credit for teachers' license, received positions in the 
public schools, and achieved distinction in their 
chosen vocation. Other pupils have obtained good 
positions in prominent business houses. Of the 
boys of St. Bridget's school, several have attained 
the priesthood, and a number of girl pupils have 
joined religious communities. It is obvious that 
the advanced branches referred to above, are taught 
in the academic and commercial department. The 
course in music is especially notable. 

For vacation the Sisters returned as usual to 
the Mother-house. A Jesuit Father conducted the 
retreat, this year. At its close the Right Rev. 

(136) 




St. Bridget's Academy, Indianapolis, Ind. 

Donors: First Three Graduates — Miss J. McGee, Miss M. McCarthy 
and Miss A. Green. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 137 

Bishop made the customary canonical visitation, 
which was preceded by the impressive ceremonies 
connected with this rite. 

For the first time in the history of the Convent. 
the Forty Hours' Adoration was observed uninter- 
ruptedly day and night, in the Chapel. 

The May devotions were held in the customary 
manner, and closed with benediction of the Blessed 
Sacrament every day. 

The same privilege was accorded to the Com- 
munity during the octave of the feast of the 
Immaculate Conception, the Blessed Virgin, under 
this title, being the Patroness of the Convent and 
Academy. Ever since the first days of the Com- 
munity this feast was observed with great solemnity, 
and was always preceded by a novena. This year 
its observance was made more imposing by the 
presence of the Right Rev. Bishop, who gave the 
religious habit to twelve postulants. 

With the opening of the scholastic term the 
following new schools in Indiana were accepted : 
Aurora, at the request of Rev. F. Hundt ; Rushville, 
at the request of Rev. J. J. Macke ; Mount Vernon, 
at the request of Rev. J. Schoentrup. In Ohio, 
Rev. H. Brinkmeier called the Sisters to his parish 
in Carthage, and Rev. S. Heitmann to Middle- 
town. 



CHAPTER III. 

An Addition to the Buildings, Blessed. — Separate Sun- 
day Services for the Sisters. — Jubilee Mission in 
Oldenburg. — Death of Rev. Peter Schenkel. — 
New Schools. 

^HE extensive addition to the Convent buildings 
was blessed by the Right Rev. Bishop himself, 
immediately after the close of the excellent Com- 
mencement Exercises of 1882. A large number 
of diocesan priests, Franciscan Fathers and clerics 
attended. 

Up to this year, the Sisters had assisted on 
Sundays and feasts at the divine services in the 
parish church. Henceforth, by an order of the 
Right Rev. Bishop, issued on July 30th, 1882, the 
Sisters have their own High Mass, sermon, Vespers 
and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on these 
days in the Convent church. 

In October of this year the celebrated missionary, 
Rev. F. X. Weninger, S. J., preached the Jubilee 
Mission in the parish church at Oldenburg. The 
feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the Founder of the 
Seraphic Order, occurring on October 4th, was 

(138) 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 139 

celebrated with extraordinary solemnity, and the 
entire Community, Sisters and Academy pupils, 
assisted. This was Father Weninger's last mission 
at Oldenburg. He had a special predilection for 
the place, because, as was related in another chapter, 
he preached there, in 1848, his first mission in 
America. In remembrance of this Jubilee Mission, 
a large granite memorial cross was erected in front 
of the church. 

The parish church of Oldenburg is dedicated to 
the Holy Family, as is indicated by a beautiful 
statuary group above its main entrance. The con- 
gregation is mostly composed of farmers, the 
village numbering about eight hundred inhabitants. 
To demonstrate the influence of surroundings on 
the development of vocations to the religious state, 
we take occasion to mention that up to this time 
thirty-five young ladies of the Oldenburg parish 
have devoted their lives to the service of God in 
religion. Six young men, former pupils of the 
parish school, became priests. 

One of these latter, whom the Sisters had 
rescued from the dangers of poverty-stricken and 
neglected surroundings, and who was gifted with 
remarkable talent, after the completion of his 
college course, joined the society of Priests of the 
African Missions. After his ordination he was sent 
to Africa, where he labored for several years for 



140 Historical Sketch. 

the conversion of the benighted natives, until sick 
ness, contracted in the fatal climate of that distant 
country, compelled him to return to Europe. He 
died at Lyons, France, a victim of his zeal for the 
propagation of the Faith. Ever grateful to the 
Sisters of Oldenburg, whose Community had 
defrayed all the expenses of his course of studies, 
he remembered them even on his deathbed, and 
requested that they be informed of his death. 
Assuredly, he will not forget them in his prayers 
at the throne of God, a requital which the Sisters 
esteem as a privilege far more precious than the 
material aid with which the Community befriended 
him in the hour of need. 

In September, 1882, Father Athanasius Linge- 
mann, O. F. M., called the Sisters to take charge of 
St. Bonaventure's school, Fairmount, Cincinnati, O. 
The one hundred and twenty children with whom 
they opened the classes have since increased to six 
hundred, and instead of two Sisters, eight are now 
employed in teaching the parochial schools, while 
others devote themselves successfully to the instruc- 
tion of large classes of music and needlework. 



CHAPTER IV. 

A Disastrous Flood at Lawrenceburg, Indiana. 

^ toHE even tenor of the Sisters' work at Olden- 
1 burg was not interrupted by any particularly 
noteworthy events during the first half of 1883. 
Smoothly the daily routine went on, each Sister 
intent on the performance of her special duties. 

But the Sisters at the school in Lawrenceburg, 
Indiana, were exposed to the perils of a flood. 
In February, the Ohio river rose to a height which 
it had not attained for many years. The streets 
in the lower part of the town were flooded, com- 
munication was interrupted, and great damage was 
caused to property. St. Lawrence school was in the 
flooded district, and the angry waters rose to the 
second story. In consequence, the classes were 
suspended. The flood caused great suffering 
amongst the poor, and the Sisters provided for a 
large number of the needy. 

By early Spring the waters had subsided, and 
the regular routine of duties was resumed. 



(141) 



CHAPTER V. 

An Addition to the Building of Holy Trinity's School, 
St. Louis. — A School in Bridgeton, Missouri — 
Illness and Death of Venerable Mother Michaela. 

MT St. Louis, Missouri, the year 1884 saw the 
i^l completion of a large addition to Holy Trinity's 
school. 

In the same year, Rev. J. Schroeder called the 
Sisters to take charge of his school at Bridgeton, 
Missouri. This was the last school accepted under 
Mother Michaela's administration. 

As we know, Venerable Mother Michaela suc- 
ceeded to the office of Superior General after Mother 
Antonia's death. She was one of the three postu- 
lants who awaited the arrival of Mother Teresa to 
be received into the Community, and therefore one 
of its foundresses. Humble and retiring, she never- 
theless devoted herself unreservedly to the welfare 
of the Community. She often remarked that the 
greatest pleasure that the Sisters could give her, 
was to walk in the footsteps of St. Francis. Like 
her predecessors, she was averse to all vain display. 
She fulfilled the duties of her office in the most 
punctual manner, and was a truly affectionate mother 
to her spiritual daughters. She led in all the Com- 
munity exercises, and edified the Sisters by her un- 
obtrusive piety. 

'142) 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 143 

Finally, illness, in the twelfth year of her suc- 
cessful administration, assumed an alarming- char- 
acter. The physicians whom the Sisters insisted on 
calling, diagnosed Bright's disease. Their efforts 
to effect a cure proved unavailing. The Right Rev. 
Bishop visited Mother Michaela repeatedly during 
her illness. As in former trials, the Sisters had re- 
course also in their present visitation to Our Lady 
of Sorrows, and implored her intercession for the 
recovery of their dear Mother. But God had or- 
dained otherwise. The time was at hand when His 
faithful servant was to he called to her reward. 
March 2d, she received the Sacraments of the dying 
with exemplary piety, fully resigned to the rulings 
of Providence. 

As many Sisters as could, came home from the 
missions to cast a farewell glance at the features of 
their dying Mother, and to receive her last blessing. 
For all she had a word of consolation, encourage- 
ment and advice, and requested them to remember 
her in their prayers, that she might be admitted 
more speedily to the beatific vision of God. 

Her increasing illness caused her great pain. 
The attacks returned more frequently, and medical 
skill no longer afforded relief. She expired peace- 
fully on April 9th, 1884. 

Mother Michaela had filled the office of Superior 
General twelve years, venerated and beloved by her 



144 Historical Sketch. 

spiritual daughters, who now mourned tearfully at 
her bier. Her mortal remains were conveyed to the 
Chapel, where the Right Rev. Bishop F. S. Chatard, 
assisted by a large number of priests, held the 
funeral services. In his address to the bereaved 
Community, the prelate dwelt impressively on the 
deceased's profound humility, holy simplicity, true 
piety and religious retirement. The body was in- 
terred in the Convent cemetery, by the side of 
Mother Teresa and Mother Antonia. 

Mother Michaela was born at Lorup, Hanover, 
Dec. 29, 1829. At an early age she resolved to 
devote herself exclusively to the service of God. 
in the religious state. The sequel shows how well 
she realized the desire of her youthful heart. Ever 
cheerful and unassuming, she followed in the foot- 
steps of her Crucified Love, sharing in all the little 
joys and sorrows of her Sisters. As stated above, 
on the demise of her predecessor, Mother Antonia, 
March 26, 1872, she was chosen provisionally 
Superior General. July 14th, the feast of the 
Seraphic St. Bonaventure, the assembled Chapter 
cast their votes, which resulted in her election, by 
a large majority. 

Dearest Mother, we have laid thee 
In thy peaceful grave's embrace : 

Enter into rest eternal, 

Find among the Blessed a place ! 



CHAPTER VI. 

Election of a New Superior General. — Statistics of the 
Community. — Nezv Schools. — Incorporation of the 
Community. 

OFTER Mother Michaela's death, her Assistant, 
IPl Sister Clotilda, governed the Community as tem- 
porary Superior until vacation, when the election of 
a new Superior General took place in presence of the 
Right Rev. Bishop and the Rev. Peter Englert, 
Director of the Community. It resulted in the 
choice of Sister Olivia, then Mistress of Novices. 
Like her predecessors, she accepted the office only 
at the command of obedience. Sister Clotilda was 
re-elected Assistant, and Sisters Veronica, Petrina 
and Stanislaus, counsellors. 

On the day after the election, the Community 
went into retreat. It was conducted by Rev. 
Father Jerome Kilgenstein, O. F. M. 

At its close, Mother Olivia, with her Council, 
made the appointments for the various missions, 
after which the Sisters went on their errands of 
duty. The Counsellors were Sisters Clotilda, 
Veronica, Petrina, Stanislaus and Aquilina, the 
present Mistress of Novices. The latter office had 
been filled respectively by Sisters Aloysia, Amata, 
Stanislaus, Scholastica and Olivia. 

At the time of Mother Michaela's death, the 

(145) 



146 Historical Sketch. 

Community numbered two hundred and thirty-four 
professed Sisters, forty-eight novices and eleven 
postulants. The parish schools in charge of the 
Sisters numbered forty-four. 

As the Community continued to increase the 
Chapel became too small. This need was especially 
felt when the Sisters were at home during vacation. 
Therefore, in the vacation of 1885, the spacious 
Auditorium in the Academy building was used as a 
temporary Chapel, and the services, the retreat, 
profession and reception were held there. 

In September, 1885, Mother Olivia was now able 
to grant Rt. Rev. Bishop Spalding's former request 
for Sisters. They took charge of the school of St. 
Patrick's parish at Minonk, Illinois, which parish 
is under the direction of Franciscan Fathers of the 
Cincinnati Province. 

About the same time the Sisters were called to 
St. Michael's school, Cincinnati, by the pastor, Rev. 
M. Deselaers. 

The year 1885 is an important one for the Com- 
munity also by reason of its incorporation in the 
States of Indiana and Missouri, under the legal 
title of "Sisters of St. Francis of Oldenburg, In- 
diana." The application to the legislatures of these 
States had been made some years before, but the 
matter was left in abeyance on account of the illness 
and death of Mother Michaela. 



CHAPTER VII. 

S u miner Normal, Examinations. — Grading of Teach- 
ers. — Annual Retreat, Vesting and Profession. — 
Nezv Schools. — Kindergarten. 

N the Normal course, which was held regularly 
during vacation, the teaching Sisters participated 
with great interest, convinced of the importance of 
this periodical review of the various departments 
of pedagogical science, which revision is for active 
life, what the retreat is for spiritual life — a strength- 
ening of principles and an adaptation of methods. 

After the Normal followed the examination of 
teachers by the Diocesan School Board. The 
Sisters employed in the schools of Franklin County, 
Indiana, were examined also by the County School 
Board, and received their teachers' license. 

At the opening of the school term, the Sisters 
took charge of the Sacred Heart school at Camp 
Washington, Cincinnati, at the request of Rev. M. 
Feldmann. Three Sisters were sent there and began 
the classes with two hundred and forty children. 
Now the school comprises nine classes with seven 

13 (147) 



148 Historical Sketch. 

hundred pupils, and a Kindergarten department, 
and employs ten Sisters. A Commercial course is 
also successfully taught, and quite a large class of 
music and fancy work. 

Rev. F. Tegeder, pastor of Cedar Grove, Indiana, 
who also called the Sisters to his school about this 
time, did not live to witness the good results they 
achieved. He died soon after their arrival. 




CHAPTER VIII. 

Golden Jubilee of the Parish at Oldenburg. — The Right 
Rev. Bishop's Return from Rome. — His Visit to 
Oldenburg. — New Schools. 

HE parish at Oldenburg celebrated the fiftieth 
anniversary of its foundation in Jul}-, 1887. 
Grand solemnities signalized this Golden jubilee. 
Owing to the absence of Rt. Rev. Bishop Chatard in 
Europe, the Right Rev. Fintan Mundwiler, O. S. B., 
Abbot of St. Meinrad, Indiana, celebrated pontifical 
High Mass. The Provincial of the Franciscans, 
Very Rev. Jerome Kilgenstein, O. F. M., preached 
the festival sermon. 

Though the Sisters now have their own services 
in the Convent church, they still take a lively interest 
in the parish church and the religious functions held 
there. Hence they duly observed the Jubilee of the 
parish so dear to their Rev. Founder. 

July 31st, the Right Rev. Bishop returned from 
his journey to Rome. His first visit after his ar- 
rival was to Oldenburg. In August he again spent 
a week there, making the canonical visitation of the 
Convent and presiding at the Annual Teachers' Ex- 

1 149] 



150 Historical Sketch. 

animation. The solemnities of profession and vest- 
ing of Sisters occurred as usual. On this occasion 
perpetual vows were pronounced by a number of 
Sisters, for the first time in ten years. 

At the beginning of the scholastic year, in Sep- 
tember, the Sisters took charge of the school at 
Sedamsville, Cincinnati, at the request of Rev. J. 
Klostermann, and at New Richmond, Ohio, at the 
request of Rev. C. Frensch. 

The domestic department of the Convent was 
furnished this year with modern, labor-saving 
laundry machinery. This, and other improvements 
made in the course of time, are ample proof that 
Mother Olivia, as her sainted predecessors, is ever 
solicitous to make the Sisters' tasks as easy as pos- 
sible, and to provide for their every welfare. 




CHAPTER IX. 

Quiet Attention to Duty. — Rome Approves the Consti- 
tutions of the Community. — Plans for a Nezv Con- 
vent Church. 

HE annals of 1888 record no remarkable occur- 
rences. The Sisters devoted themselves quietly 
and religiously to the performance of their various 
duties. A welcome interruption was afforded them 
by the call to the annual retreat, which was con- 
ducted in the usual manner by Rev. Father Daniel 
Heile, O. F. M. 

Following this renovation of spirit came the 
ever-impressive ceremonies of profession and vest- 
ing, which were witnessed this year by an unusually 
large number of visitors. Profession of perpetual 
vows was made by thirteen Sisters ; a large number 
renewed their vows for the term of five years, and 
twenty-one novices Avere admitted to the three years' 
profession — all this in accordance with the decree 
of the Sacred Congregation of Bishops and Regu- 
lars mentioned in a preceding chapter. 

It was also in the course of this year that the 
Constitutions of the Community were translated 

(151) 



]52 Historical Sketch. 

into Latin, by the Rev. P. Bonaventura, O. F. M., 

in order that his Lordship. Right Rev. Bishop 
Chatard, might present them for inspection and 
approbation to the Sacred Congregation at Rome. 
After the lapse of two years they were received with 
the approbation for five years. 

Owing to the increasing number of Sisters, 
room in the Chapel had long ago become over- 
crowded. Lherefore plans were carefully prepared 
for a large new Convent Church and sent to the 
Right Rev. Bishop F. S. Chatard, who returned 
them in due time with his approval and building 
operations soon began. 

In September, 1888, the Sisters undertook the 
charge of their second school in the diocese of 
Peoria, being called to Bloomington, Illinois, by 
Rev. Father Hilary Hoelscher, O. F. M., pastor of 
St. Mary's church, and also of St. Anthony's school 
at Evansville. at the request of Rev. C. Seiler. Since 
his congregation labored under heavy debt, on ac- 
count of the recent erection of their magnificent 
church, the Sisters generously consented to build the 
school-house. 




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O rt 

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CHAPTER X. 

A Temporary Chapel. — Laying of the Corner-stone of 
the New Convent Church. — New Schools. 

^jlpHE dear old Chapel in which the Community 
lr had assembled for thirty years, for divine 
service, recitation of Office, meditation and prayer, 
was now doomed to the wrecker's hand. Its 
site was needed for the new Convent Church. The 
holy sacrifice of the Mass was offered in it the last 
time on February 4th, i« 



Piece by piece, and brick by brick, 

With rope and saw, with hammer and pick, 

They took the old Chapel down ! 

Ah, rude was the work, though gently done, 
And sad was the triumph the workman won, 
When the dear old walls were down ! 

And many a string of the soul and heart 
In sorrow and pain were forced apart, 
When the loved old Chapel was down ! 

No more the altar, so chaste and bright, 
Shall lift to heaven its blessed light: 
Altar and lights are down ! 

(153) 



154: Historical Sketch. 

The tabernacle, that home of love. 
Seraphic rest of the Lord above. 
Alas, it too is down ! 

No more the eye is fastened there. 
The spirit rapt in silent prayer — 
Alas. alas, 'tis down ! 

Around the walls, no more shall we 
The sad procession sorrowing see. 
The stations all are down ! 

And down the saving, sacred cross. 
The statues too ; O sad, sad loss 
Of hallowed emblems ■ — down ! 

One of the Academy refectories was now fur- 
nished as a temporary chapel, and services were held 
there until vacation time. The altars and organ 
were transferred to the church of a neighboring 
village. 

March 12, feast of St. Gregory the Great ground 
was broken for the new church, and on May 31st, 
the Right Rev. Bishop laid the corner-stone. The 
work was placed under the special protection of St. 
Joseph. 

The dimensions of the new church are as fol- 
lows : Entire length, one hundred and fifty-three 
feet and seven inches; width, sixty-one feet: height 
of tower and belfrv, one hundred and sixty-one feet. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg. Ind. 



1 55 



Above the main entrance stands a beautiful stone 
statue of the Immaculate Conception, the gift of 
Miss Frances Stomps, of Dayton, Ohio. 

Thanks to the powerful intercession of St. 
Joseph, in whose special care the work had been 
placed, and whose protection the Sisters daily in- 
voked, the building' was completed without accident. 

In September, 1889, the Sisters were called to 
St. Anthony's school, Streator, Illinois, by Rev. 
Father Dominic Meyer, O. F. M., and to Delhi, 
Ohio, bv Rev. William Scholl. 




WflKT fIFTH. 

\ 890 -1900. 





Church of the Immaculate Conception, Oldenburg, Ixd. 



CHAPTER I. 

The Blessed Sacrament Transferred to the Nexv Church. 

— Celebration of the First Mass Therein. — Bap- 
tism of Two Converts. — Modem Improvements. — 
Nezv Schools. 

§N January 8th, iSgo. Rev. Father Peter Baptist 
Englert, O. F. M. 3 for many years the zealous 
Spiritual Director of the Community, who had given 
much time, thought and labor to the perfection of 
details in the new Church, was succeeded by a 
former Rector, Rev. Father Louis Haverbeck, O. 
F. M. 3 at present the Provincial of the Franciscans 
of the Cincinnati Province. 

The walls of the beautiful Convent Church rose 
quickly, and were under roof by the setting in of 
winter. The interior work was prosecuted most 
vigorously to advance it at least so far that it might 
be opened for service at the beginning of the school 
term, because the increasing number of pupils in the 
Academy made it desirable to restore the refectory. 
now used as a chapel, to its original purpose. But 
only on December 8th was the work sufficiently ad- 
vanced for the celebration of divine services in the 
new church. This day, the feast of the Immaculate 

14 (159) 



160 Historical Sketch. 

Conception, always observed by the Community 
with the greatest possible solemnity, was this year, 
one of more than usual importance. 

The Right Rev. Bishop arrived on the eve of the 
feast. Toward evening on the day, December 7th, 
Rev. Father Louis Haverbeck, O. F. M., Director 
of the Community, solemnly transferred the Blessed 
Sacrament to the New Church. The Sisters and 
pupils chanting the "0 salutaris Hostia" and bear- 
ing lighted tapers, formed in procession and escorted 
the Blessed Sacrament from the temporary chapel 
to the new Church, where benediction was given 
and the Tc Dcum sung. 

The Sisters could not but contrast, on this oc- 
casion, the splendor of the new Church with the 
extreme poverty and destitution of that little room 
in the first Convent, where, in 1852, the Blessed 
Sacrament reposed in a tabernacle made of a wooden 
box, and the lamp burning before it consisted of a 
hollow turnip decorated with tinsel, which caught 
fire one day, and was then replaced by a glass lamp. 

On the day of the feast, December 8th, the Right 
Rev. Bishop celebrated the first Mass in the new 
church. In the afternoon he administered con- 
ditional baptism to two pupils, and received their 
profession of Faith. Both are now zealous members 
of the Order. On the evening of this festive day, 
the annual solemn Reception of a number of pupils 




u d 

31 

o 

H S 

S i-l 



2 & 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 161 

of the Academy into the Sodality of the Blessed 
Virgin Mary, took place, at which his Lordship, the 
Right Rev. Bishop, graciously officiated, assisted by 
the Rev. Rector and other Rev. Fathers. 

On Christmas night the new church was illum- 
inated by gaslight for the first time, the gas being 
manufactured on the Sisters' own premises. 

The architect of the church, Mr. D. Bohlen, did 
not live to see its completion, but his plans were 
faithfully carried out by his son, Mr. Oscar Bohlen. 

The new schools accepted in 1890 were, one at 
Wichita, Kansas, at the request of Father Athan- 
asius Lingemann, O. F. M., and another at North 
Fairmount, Cincinnati, at the request of Rev. F. J. 
Kessing. 




CHAPTER II. 

Annual Commencement. — Consecration of the New 
Church. — The High Altar. — Shrines. — A Nezv 
School and Kindergarten. 

fEBRUARY 9th, [891, Sister Clara departed this 
life, in her seventy-eighth year. She was the 
first one to be buried from the new church. Her 
last wish on earth had been to see it completed, and 
it was gratified. 

In June, the erection of the high altar was begun, 
and completed July 1st. It is a work of art, in 
marble and onyx. 

The annual Commencement Exercises were this 
year postponed to July 1st, as the solemn consecra- 
tion of the Convent church was set for July 2d. An 
uncommonly large number of priests, benefactors 
and friends of the Community were in attendance at 
the two-fold solemnity. At the close of the most 
interesting and excellent Commencement Exercises, 
the Most Reverend Archbishop Elder, of Cincinnati, 
distributed the prizes, assisted by the Right Rev. 
Ordinary, Bishop Chatard. 

The solemn consecration of the new Convent 

(162) 




< a 
s! 

So 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 108 

Church took place on July 2(1, the feast of the Visi- 
tation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The ceremonies 
were performed by the Right Rev. Bishop Chatard. 
The pontifical High Mass, which followed, was cele- 
brated by the Most Rev. Archbishop Elder, of Cin- 
cinnati, O., thirty priests assisting. The sermon 
was preached by the Very Rev. Jerome Kilgenstein, 
O. F. M., at this time Provincial of the Franciscans. 
At the consecration, the relics of St. Boniface, 
Bishop and Martyr, and of St. Clement, Pope and 
Martyr, were placed in the high altar. 

The interior of the Convent Church is a veritable 
marvel of beauty, with its marble, altars, magnificent 
pipe organ, stained glass windows, exquisite altar 
railing and massive oaken pews. Whoever really 
desires to see an architectural gem in the purest of 
settings, must visit the Oldenburg Convent church. 

The ceremonies of consecration, so replete with 
symbolism and full of eloquence in meaning, were 
carried out by the officials of the day; in a faultless 
manner, under the efficient direction of the Very 
Rev. P. Baptist Englert, O. F. M., Master of Cere- 
monies. The church was crowded by visitors from 
far and near, many of them former pupils, or parents 
of those now in the Academy. 

Besides the high altar there are two side altars, 
the same in style and material as the high altar, 
which were erected at a later period. In addition to 



164 Historical Sketch. 

these, the church contains the following artistic, 
small shrines : Shrine of the Holy Face, donated 
by Miss Rose Stomps ; Shrine of Our Lady of Per- 
petual Help, donated by Mr. and Mrs. Henry Dill- 
hoff; statue of St. Ann, donated by Mr. and Mrs. 
A. Joseph Nurre ; shrine of St. Dominic and the Holy 
Rosary; shrine of St. Anthony of Padua, the great 
Wonderworker of the Seraphic Order, and the 
shrine of the Pieta. 

Another most generous and appropriate gift to 
the grand Convent Church, this in token of the Com- 
munity's Golden Jubilee, is a most beautiful golden 
chalice, presented by the loyal benefactress of the 
Convent, Mrs. (Korte) Moormann, of Cincinnati. 
Mention of this noble woman has been made in one 
of the foregoing chapters, as one of the two pupils 
who considered herself highly honored to furnish the 
first and miniature oratory of the Academy. Fre- 
quently since, has she opened her liberal hand and 
heart to supply here a chasuble, there a statue, or to 
surprise the dear Sisters in her own ingenious and 
unique manner. Her daughter has attended the 
Academy for the past five years and belongs to the 
Class of 1902. What beautiful generations, those 
reared successively neath the blessed and special 
guardianship of Heaven's Immaculate Queen ! 

A beautiful set of stations of the Cross, in alto 
relievo, which had been canonicallv erected and 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 165 

blessed some time before, adorns the walls. All 
statuary was imported from the famous Art Studio 
of Mayer, of Munich. 

The entire aspect of the sublime structure is in- 
spiring, devotional and pleasing beyond description. 

The Sisters' work continued to expand. At Cin- 
cinnati the schools of St. Francis parish had been 
reorganized by the Franciscan Fathers, and they 
summoned the Sisters of the Community of Olden- 
burg to take charge of the girls' classes. The six 
hundred and eighteen pupils which they comprise, 
are taught by eleven Sisters. A Kindergarten, with 
ninety little ones, was also organized and continues 
to flourish. The classes in music and fancy work 
are unusually large. 




CHAPTER III. 

New Schools. — Aggregation of the Community to the 
Arch-confraternity of the Holy Face. — Confirma- 
tion of the Community's Constitution by the Holy 
See. 

IN St. Bridget's parish. Indianapolis, the Rev. D. 
•I Cnrran opened a school for colored children, and 
placed the Sisters in charge. It is still conducted by 
them with blessed results, the only one of its kind 
caught by the Sisters. 

In this same year, 1892, the school at Xorth 
Delhi, Ohio, was accepted by the Sisters at the re- 
quest of Rev. Messmer. 

In April, the Community was aggregated to the 
Archconfraternity of the Holy Face, and since then 
the month of April is always observed with special 
devotion. 

In June, after the annual Commencement Exer- 
cises of the Academy, at which again, as usual, a 
larg-e number of priests and friends of the Institu- 
tion assisted, the Right Rev. Bishop blessed the 
shrines of the Holy Face and of Our Lady of Per- 

(166) 




Main Convent Stairway. 

Donors: Misses J. and R. Olberding. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 167 

petual Help. An indulgence of forty days, to be 
gained on the feast of the Visitation, July 2d, was 
granted to the Community, and a plenary indulgence 
in perpetuity for the 27th of July, under the usual 
conditions, including a visit to the Shrine of Our 
Lady of Perpetual Help. 

The Constitutions of the Oldenburg Community 
of Sisters of St. Francis, this year received the ap- 
probation of the Holy See. This approbation, when 
granted for the first time, is always given for a 
definite term of years, so as to enable the Community 
concerned to apply for changes that may seem 
desirable. 

The following document was issued at the time : 

DECREE. 

The Constitutions of the Sisters of the Third Order of 
St. Francis of the Community of Oldenburg, Diocese of Vin- 
cennes, in the United States of North America, having been 
submitted for revision to this S. Congregation for the Propa- 
gation of the Christian name, a commission especially- 
appointed for the purpose, under the presidency of His 
Eminence Cardinal Camillus Mazzella, discussed them in 
mature deliberation, and deemed the aforesaid Oldenburg 
Institute of Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis, very 
commendable and deserving of well-merited praise; its con- 
stitutions, however, into which the modifications exhibited 
in the present copy are to be inserted, shall be again submitted 
to this S. Congregation, after an experiment of five years. 



16S 



Historical Sketch. 



Which sentence, having been referred to our Most Holy Lord, 
Pope Leo XIII.. by the subscribed Secretary of this S. Con- 
gregation, was benignly approved and confirmed by His 
Holiness, who ordered the present Decree relating to this 
matter to be issued. 

Given at Rome, from the palace of the S. Congregation 
for the Propagation of the Faith, on the 5th day of August. 
1891. 

Johx Cardinal Simedni, Prefect. 
Ignatius, Archb. of Damiata. Secretary. 





St. Anthony's School, Streator, III. 

Donor : Miss E- Schuetz. 




. o 

S O 
= - 



CHAPTER IV. 

New Buildings. — The Community Receives the Holy 
Father's Special Blessing. — Extraordinary Privi- 
leges Granted to the Community. — Consecration of 
the New Side Altars. 

IN 1893, the Sisters erected a new school house and 
•X dwelling in Streator, Illinois. 

In Oldenburg another building was added to the 
Convent, which was to serve exclusively as an in- 
firmary for the sick Sisters. According to the 
spirit of St. Francis, invalids and infirm Sisters 
receive the utmost care and attention. 

On the occasion of the Golden Jubilee of the 
Episcopacy of our Holy Father Leo XIII. , the Com- 
munity sent a contribution to Peter's Pence, the 
receipt of which His Holiness formally acknowl- 
edged by sending, on February 18th, his special 
blessing to the Sisters, a privilege which they es- 
teemed highly and for which they were truly grate- 
ful. 

And yet another special and extraordinary priv- 
ilege was granted to the Community this year. The 
Sisters were made partakers of all the indulgences 

(169) 



170 Historical Sketch. 

and spiritual favors accorded to the First and Second 
Order of St. Francis. This Prerogative was ob- 
tained for them by their Reverend Rector, Father 
Louis Haverbeck, O. F. M. The Brief of the S. 
Congregation of Indulgences is dated November 
25th, 1893, coinciding with the feast of St. Cath- 
erine, Virgin and Martyr, who is co-patroness of the 
Pupils' Sodality of the Blessed Virgin, and patroness 
elect of "The Class." 

The side altars, harmonizing in style and ma- 
terial with the high altar, were now erected in the 
new church, and the Right Rev. Bishop had the 
kindness to perform the ceremony of consecration, on 
which occasion twelve priests and a number of Fran- 
ciscan clerics assisted. These beautiful altars and 
shrines were made by the firm of H. & F. Schroeder, 
Cincinnati, Ohio. Fraught with so many special 
spiritual favors and privileges, the year 1893 is one 
of the most auspicious in the history of the Com- 
munitv. 



CHAPTER V. 

Vacation and Retreat. — Electricity as Illuminating 
Agent. — St. Henry's School, at St. Louis. Mis- 
souri. Accepted. — Its Destruction by a Tornado. 

^fftHE annual return to the Mother-house for the 
a vacation and retreat of 1894. gave the mission 
Sisters an opportunity of admiring the beauties of 
the new Convent church at their leisure. And it is 
but human nature chastened bv religious devotion, 
that they rejoiced at the splendor of their Divine 
Spouse's earthly habitation in their midst, erected 
and furnished thus grandly by the fruits of their 
daily toil. 

The retreat was preached in the new church. 
Vacation ended, the Sisters received their appoint- 
ments, and hastened away, each one to her post of 
duty. 

During this year, electricity was introduced for 
the lighting of the Church, Academy and Convent. 
For this purpose and as a motor of the pipe organ, 
elevators, and other machinery, the Community 
erected its own electric plant. 

In 1894, the Sisters took charge of St. Henry's 
school, St. Louis, Missouri. It was organized with 

(171) 



172 Historical Sketch. 

four classes,, containing one hundred and ninety-three 
pupils, taught by four teachers. 

This school is located in the district visited by a 
tornado. A description of this terrible experience 
follows here in token of gratitude toward Divine 
Providence for the miraculous preservation of the 
Sisters. 

It was on May 27th, 1896. A tornado rose sud- 
denly, and swept over a great portion of the city. 
St. Henry's parish buildings contained the Chapel, 
school and Sisters' dwelling. Six Sisters and a pupil 
were in the latter at the time. When the darkness 
became so intense that it interfered with the Sisters' 
occupations, one of them went to the Chapel, situated 
in the second story, to pray before the Blessed Sacra- 
ment. Another Sister, intending to join her, 
stopped at the foot of the stairway, held back, it 
seemed to her, by some invisible power. She 
thought to herself : "Is it a good or bad angel that 
detains me?" A few minutes later she was con- 
vinced that her guardian angel had protected her and 
saved her from an awful death. For whilst she was 
thus hesitating, the building began to shake on its 
foundations, and the upper story, with all its con- 
tents, fell crashing to the ground. The Sister in 
the Chapel found herself pinned to the floor, cov- 
ered by the falling ruins. Fortunately, pieces of 
joists and planks had formed a kind of roof over 




X 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 173 

her. so that she received no injury. But so com- 
pletely was she covered up, that only one hand re- 
mained free. The storm, moreover, robbed her of 
her veil, which was never found. Her imprisonment 
lasted about three-quarters of an hour, when Rev. 
Father Von Brun and another gentleman succeeded 
in rescuing her from her perilous position. On join- 
ing the other Sisters, she said : "When I expected 
to die I made an act of love of God, and thought. 
'Now you will soon be in eternity.' But when death 
came not, I began to implore St. Anthony to extricate 
me from my prison, and prayed for the repose of the 
souls of my Sisters below, deeming their preservation 
impossible." 

At Holy Trinity's, the Sister Superior, on notic- 
ing the coming of the storm, said to the Sisters : 
"Let us say the rosary in honor of the Sorrowful 
Mother, to invoke her protection." No doubt, their 
fervent prayer was graciously heard, and the threat- 
ened Sisters at St. Henry's owe, in a measure, their 
preservation to these petitions. 

When Archbishop Kain and Bishop Bonacum 
next day visited the scene of disaster, at St. Henry's, 
they remarked that the Sisters' escape from all harm 
was truly miraculous. 

This is but one of the many instances of the 
special protection which God has extended to dif- 
ferent members of the Community. The accom- 



174 Historical Sketch. 

panying illustration shows the fearful havoc wrought 
by the tornado. 

The signal intervention of our Blessed Mother in 
the preservation of the Sisters in the above mentioned 
fearful visitation, intensified their desire to render 
loyal homage to our Lady of the Holy Rosary. This 
desire was now speedily and fully gratified by the 
enrollment of the Community into the Archcon- 
fraternity of the Holy Rosary, of New York. The 
Decree, securing to them all the indulgences and 
privileges incident to the admission of religious 
communities, was obtained through the instrumen- 
tality of the Rev. Rector, P. Pius Niehaus, O. F. M. 
He it was, also, who designed and dedicated the beau- 
tiful shrine of the Holy Rosary Group and that of St. 
Anthony. 

Classes were suspended until the fall term at St. 
Henry's school. On September 7th, a temporary 
Chapel and school were opened. The Sisters, mean- 
while, were the welcome guests of their fellow-sisters 
at Holy Trinity's. The pastor of St. Henry's, R.ev. 
j. Hoffmann, did everything in his power to assist 
the Sisters during this time of trial. 



CHAPTER VI. 

Calm Prosperity. — Progress of the Academy. — Death 
of Several Sisters. 

O remarkable occurrences appear on the records 
of 1895. The Sisters devoted themselves 
calmly and faithfully to the pursuits, which holy 
obedience assigned to them at home and abroad. 
And God's blessing prospered their efforts. 

The Academy continued to flourish, both as 
regards the results achieved and the number of 
pupils. The annual Commencement exercises con- 
vinced visitors of the excellence of the education im- 
parted, demonstrating that it is calculated both for 
the improvement of the mind and heart and for the 
development of the pupils' natural abilities. Instruc- 
tion in Christian Doctrine and the practices of re- 
ligion occupy a foremost place in the curriculum of 
studies. For, "What doth it profit a man if he gain 
the whole world, and suffer the loss of his own soul ? 
Or what exchange shall a man give for his soul ?" 
(Matt, xvi, 26). The academic, scientific and com- 
mercial courses, music, drawing, painting in oil and 
water colors, type- writing, the female handicrafts of 
plain and fancy sewing, embroidery, crocheting, etc., 
receive the most scruplous attention. The pupils' 
productions, ornamental as well as useful, are placed 

(175) 



L76 Historical Sketch. 

on exhibition at the end of the scholastic year in the 
Art Hall. But the annual closing exercises are not 
planned as a mere exhibition for vanity's sake ; they 
are not an empty show of well-drilled pretense. 
They are the well-merited recognition of the pupils' 
diligence and progress; they are an encouragment 
to persevere in those habits of application and endur- 
ance that were inculcated during the year, and alone 
insure success in life. 

The good example of the Sisters, their calm 
serenity, their unobtrusive piety, their modest de- 
meanor, their mild cheerfulness, yea, even the peace- 
ful atmosphere in which they move — all these are so 
many incitements to their young charges to "mind 
the things that are above, not the things that are upon 
the earth." (Coloss. in, 2.) This is conclusively 
demonstrated by the fact that of the number of their 
pupils fifty-four have, so far, chosen the religious 
state, and of these, thirty-six have joined the Order 
of St. Francis in the Oldenburg Community. 

During 1895, the Community lost, by death, nine 
clear and deserving members. They have gone be- 
fore to receive, Ave hope and pray, the reward of 
eternal life. 

Dear spouses of Christ, your days were soon o'er; 

Peace to your spirit, and tears for your worth ! 
We'll meet you again on eternity's shore, 

When done with the crosses and trials of earth. 






CHAPTER VII. 

A Nezvly Ordained Priest's First Mass in the Convent 
Church. — Silver Jubilee of a Number of Sisters. — 
The Community is Received, with Extraordinary 
Privileges, into the Archconfraternity of the Holy 
Rosary. — Villa Santa Clara. 

NEWLY ordained priest, Rev. F. Gaudentius 
Schuster, O. F. M., on July 26th, 1896, feast 
of St. Ann, celebrated his first Mass in the Convent 
church, with due solemnity. His sister is a member 
of the Community, and he selected this sanctuary to 
be the scene of his happiest day in life to enable her 
to be present, a favor for which she and the whole 
Community were duly thankful. 

On the same day thirteen Sisters observed the 
twenty-fifth anniversary of their profession. 

In this month, also, the whole Community was 
admitted into the Archconfraternity of the Holy 
Rosary. The regulations of this pious association 
do not permit the establishment of a branch confra- 
ternity in female religious communities. Therefore, 
the Sisters were individually enrolled in the lists of 
the Dominican Fathers in New York, with all the 
privileges, however, usually granted to the confra- 
ternities- canonically erected, viz.: 1. On the feast 
of the Holy Rosary the same indulgences can be 
gained that are granted for Portiuncula. 2. The in- 

(177) 



178 Historical Sketch. 

diligences can be gained by the Sisters on missions, 
if they visit their parish church. 3. During his 
term of office, the Director of the Community has the 
faculty of blessing rosary beads according to the 
Dominican rite, and to apply to them the same in- 
dulgences as the Dominicans, as previously intimated. 

These are, certainly, great privileges, fully equal 
to that obtained preAdously for them by Rev. P. Louis 
Haverbeck, O. F. M., viz. : of participating in all 
the indulgences of the three Orders of St. Francis. 

A most happy one was, then, the year 1896, both 
in spiritual and temporal respects. 

In this same year, the Right Rev. Bishop Mc- 
Closkey, of Louisville, Ky., wrote an autograph let- 
ter to Mother Superior, urgently requesting Sisters 
to take charge of a school in his diocese. But 
scarcity of teachers compelled her to decline, at least 
for the present, the flattering proposal. 

About one mile from Oldenburg, where the 
broad acres of their well-tilled farms expand, the 
Sisters, this year, erected a handsome and spacious 
country house, which serves as a rural resort for 
such of the Academy pupils as wish to spend their 
vacation at the Convent. Here they enjoy country 
life with real zest. St. Clara Villa, as this wood- 
land home is called, is a favorite haunt of their 
weekly walks and outings. It was blessed, and the 
stations of the cross erected by Rev. P. Pius, Rector. 




Froxt View of the Academy. 

Donor: Mrs. H. Clasgen (nee Olberding). 



16 



CHAPTER VIII. 

A New Convent and Academy Building. — The Church 
Frescoed. — A New Cemetery. — Laying of Corner- 
stones. — Awarding of Contracts. 

1$\S the old Convent and Academy building had 
iPl long since grown too small for the accommoda- 
tion of the numerous inmates, and besides, were in 
need of thorough repair, it was deemed both ex- 
pedient and more economical to erect new structures. 
With the approval and encouragement of the Right 
Rev. Bishop Chatard the Sisters therefore resolved 
to build a large and well-appointed new Convent and 
Academy. In January, 1898, the plans were ready. 
In the course of years, new additions to the Con- 
vent had been built in accordance with the means 
and exigencies of the Community, but the erection 
of a Convent adequate in size and arrangements to 
the needs of the Community had always been de- 
ferred, in order to avoid the burden of indebtedness. 
This had always been scrupulously avoided in con- 
formity with the views of the sainted Founder. 
Now necessity was made a virtue. 

The corner-stone of one wing of the new 
Academy building was laid in 1898. by Rev. Father 

(179) 



180 Historical Sketch. 

Pius. O. F. M., and the foundation was completed 
before winter set in. 

The Convent Church was this year beautifully 
frescoed by the eminent fresco painter, R. Bachman. 
of New York City. His work greatly enhanced the 
artistic effect of the architecture, and is declared by 
critical judges a masterpiece of mural painting. The 
oil paintings., consisting of eight groups, four full 
figures, and fourteen busts, were executed by the 
noted artist, W, Lamprecht, also of New York 
City. They represent respectively, St. Francis Re- 
ceiving the Bull of Approval of the Rules, St. 
Francis Giving the Rules to St. Clara, Jesus Bless- 
ing Little Children, Christ Among the Doctors at 
the Age of Twelve, then four groups of Angels. 
The full figures, Angels of the Sanctuary, then King 
David and St. Cecilia. The busts are : the four 
great Doctors of the Church ; then St. Bonaventura, 
Francis de Sales, Thomas Aquinas, St. Louis, St. 
Peter Baptist, St. Margaret of Cortona, St. Catherine 
of Alexandria, St. Agatha, St. Elizabeth of Hun- 
gary, St. Angela Merici. 

Hitherto, the Community's cemetery had been 
within the confines of the Convent grounds. The 
extension of the new building necessitated its re- 
moval. Hence the Community bought four acres of 
land adjoining the parish cemetery, to which the 
remains of the dear departed were reverently trans- 




K£ 



HQ 







D 3 

en M 



B S 

jj O 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 181 

ferred. A vault was built there, and a mortuary 
chapel erected over it. 

The corner-stone of the main building, intended 
for the Convent, was laid by Rev. Father John C. 
Heitmann, Director of the Community, August 14, 
1899. On November 21st, feast of the Presentation 
of the Blessed Virgin, the contract was awarded to 
the firm of Harig & Brueggemann. Mr. Oscar 
Bohlen wrote out the specifications and calculations 
of the plans, designed with uncommon architectural 
ability, by Very Rev. P. Englert, a former esteemed 
Rector of the Community, with whose needs he was 
well acquainted. 

During this year two new schools were accepted, 
viz. : St. Joseph's, in Cincinnati, at the request of 
Rev. William Scholl, who had become permanent 
rector of that parish, one of the oldest and most 
prominent of the city, and the school at Princeton, 
Indiana, at the request of Rev. Ledvina. 



CHAPTER IX. 

New Christmas Crib. — Final Approbation of the 
Community's Constitutions. — Laying of the Cor- 
ner-stone. — New Schools. — Solemn Midnight 
Mass. 

iMONG the many forms of Catholic devotion 
introduced by the Franciscan Order, one of the 
most popular is that to the Infant Jesus, with its 
inspiring representation of the Manger of Bethle- 
hem, or the so-called Christmas Crib. 

St. Francis himself had a great devotion to the 
Nativity of our Divine Lord. "It is the feast of 
feasts," he said of Christmas. He was convinced 
that, if this divine mystery could be represented ac- 
cording to nature, it would have a strong religious 
effect upon all Christians. Would the Church ap- 
prove such an innovation? He laid the question 
before the Sovereign Pontiff, and received a favor- 
able answer. It was on the ioth of December, 1223. 
He lost no time. He sent a message to a nobleman at 
Grecio, a man of high birth and elevated mind, whom 
he knew to be a devoted friend. "I wish to keep 
Christmas night with you," he said, "and if you will 
agree, this is how we will celebrate it. You will 

(182) 




Crib. 

Donor: Miss Josie Becker. 



Sisters of St. Francis, OldenburGj Ink ls;{ 

choose a place in your woods, a grotto, if there is 
one. You will put in it a manger with hay. There 
must he an ox and ass. It must he as much as pos- 
sible like the stable at Bethlehem. I want for once 
to see with my own eves the birth and poverty of the 
Divine Infant." The nobleman entered warmly into 
the idea of his holy friend. All was prepared as he 
had proposed. The brethren in the neighboring 
convents were informed of it, and the village people 
were invited. When the time came, an immense 
multitude, carrying torches and lighted tapers, went 
to the ceremony. The woods seemed as though on 
fire. The brethren sang hymns, which were taken 
up by the people and repeated by the echoes of the 
forest. Francis was at the head of the devout as- 
sembly, close to the crib. He seemed fascinated, 
enraptured and melted with tenderness. 

At midnight, the Mass began in the middle of the 
woods, over the crib itself. The Saint wore the 
Levite's tunic as deacon of the Mass, and sang the 
gospel in a clear, sweet, sonorous voice. His whole 
soul seemed to pass into the touching narrative of the 
evangelist. Then he preached on the birth of that 
King in poverty, the Saviour of the world. With 
loving tenderness, he called Him the Child of Bethle- 
hem. All who were present were in a sort of rap- 
ture. John of Grecio, who had prepared the festival, 
affirmed that at one moment he saw in the crib an 



184 Historical Sketch. 

infant of marvelous beauty, doubtless the Divine 
Infant, and that St. Francis embraced the Child. 
The people returned home after the celebration with 
hearts filled with joy, and preserved ever after an 
unfading memory of all they had beheld. 

This is the origin of the Christmas Crib, which 
henceforward was introduced into Franciscan and 
other churches throughout the world. 

It had long been the Sisters' desire to have a crib 
in their church on Christmas to correspond with its 
beautiful architecture, and worthy, in some manner, 
of the event it commemorates. On Christmas, 1898, 
their wish was gratified. A most beautiful crib was 
erected, the work of one of their own members. 
Sister Anastasia. The figures are nearly life size, 
and executed in a manner true to nature. Com- 
pared with the most expensive imported statutary 
of the kind, they are works of art. 

In January, the Sisters received the sad an- 
nouncement, that Right Rev. Bishop Chatard had 
suffered a paralytic stroke, and was in a critical con- 
dition. This information was a great shock to the 
Community, all the more so, as he had but recently 
been in their midst, seeming in perfect health. 
Community prayers were immediately ordered to be 
said for him. 

As usual, whenever feasible, the vesting of 
novices and the profession of Sisters took place on 




u 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenrurg, Ind. 



185 



the feast of St. Ann, July 26th. This year, the 
retreat which always precedes these ceremonies was 
preached by Rev. Father Ubaldus Webersinke, O. 
F. M. 

On September 2d, the experimental quinquennial 
term having expired, the Constitutions of the Com- 
munity received the final approval of the Holy See. 

The following decree of the S. Congregation of 
the Propaganda was issued with regard to this 
matter : 

DECREE. 

The Sisters of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis, 
whose Mother-house is situated at Oldenburg, in the diocese 
of Indianapolis, in the United States of North America, having 
urgently requested this Sacred Congregation of the Propaga- 
tion of the Faith, that their Institute be approved by the 
Holy See, and that its Constitutions, which, in the year 1891 
were already given a probationary approval for five years, be 
confirmed for all future times, the Most Reverend Commission 
for the Examination of New Rules of Religious Institutes, to 
whom the matter was referred, under the presidency of His 
Eminence Camillus Mazzella, Cardinal of the Holy Roman 
Catholic Church, has deemed it expedient to issue the follow- 
ing resolutions. 

As the aforementioned Institute is recommended in terms 
of the highest praise by the Rt. Rev. Ordinaries in whose 
dioceses there are houses of the Sisters, because of its useful- 
ness, and because the modifications communicated to the 
Sisters by decree of August 5, 1891, have been faithfully 



186 Historical Sketch. 

carried out by them, therefore the Commission deems it 
advisable to grant the Decree of Approbation to the afore- 
named Institute of the Sisters of the Third Order Regular of 
St. Francis, of the Oldenburg Community, and to approve for 
all the future their Constitutions, provided the corrections 
made by the same Most Rev. Commission be incorporated in 
the text in accordance with the copy accompanying this Decree. 

This resolution, which in an audience of August I, 1899. 
was referred to Our Holy Father Pope Leo XIII. by the 
undersigned Secretary of the above named Sacred Congre- 
gation of the Propagation of the Faith. His Holiness fully 
ratifies and confirms and orders the present Decree bearing 
thereon to be issued. 

Given in Rome, from the palace of the Sacred Congrega- 
tion of the Propagation of the Faith, August 7th, 1899. 
For His Eminence the Cardinal Prefect, 

Aloysius Veccia, Secretary. 

This year, the Sisters were invited to found an 
Academy and to take charge of parochial schools in 
Texas. On account of the scarcity of Sisters, the 
request had to be refused, two schools having been 
accepted shortly before, viz. : at Kansas City, Mis- 
souri, at the instance of Rev. Father Stephen Hoff- 
man, O. F. M., and at Bridgetown, Ohio, at the 
request of Rev. H. Ellerbrook. Moreover, a Kind- 
ergarten department had been opened in the parish 
school at Camp Washington, Cincinnati. 

In December the. Right Rev. Bishop returned 
from Rome, greatly improved in health. He soon 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 1S7 

visited the Sisters and remained at Oldenburg 
several days. 

The new Christmas crib was set up for the feast 
of the Nativity, and the Sisters assisted at Midnight 
Mass. The close of the year, 1899, was also marked 
by the special privilege of the Holy Father, as in so 
many churches throughout the world, by a solemn 
midnight Mass in the Convent Church, and the new 
year 1900 was ushered in by the celebration of the 
holy mysteries of the altar, an event which impressed 
itself indelibly on the memory of all present. The 
same privilege was accorded by His Holiness for the 
vigil of the New Century; to this was added the 
gracious permission for the exposition of the Blessed 
Sacrament from six a. m. till noon on New Year's 
da}', to draw down upon the Community the special 
blessing of Him, who controls all human destinies. 

The Tc Deum, ascending to Heaven on these 
festive occasions from the grateful hearts of the 
Sisters,, was an appropriate expression of thanks- 
giving for the many benefits and signal blessings 
received by the Community during the second half 
of the closing century. 



CHAPTER X. 

Commencement Exercises. — Elections. — -Dedication of 
the Academy Oratory. — First Communion and 
Confirmation. — Vesting and Profession. 

^HE illness, and subsequent journey to Europe, 
of the Right Rev. Bishop Chatard, prevented 
his presence at the Commencement Exercises in 
1899. The premiums were distributed by the Aux- 
iliary Bishop of Indianapolis, Right Rev. D. 
O'Donaghue. 

He also presided at the elections, held in the 
Community, in July. Venerable Mother Olivia was 
re-elected to the office of Superior General, which 
she had so conscientiously, successfully and accept- 
ably filled for so many years. The Assistant, and 
the counsellors were also re-elected, with the excep- 
tion of Sister Stanislaus, who died August 18th, 
1893, when Sister Aquilina was chosen to fill her 
place. 

The Right Rev. Denis O'Donaghue, Bishop of 
Pomario, and Auxiliary of Indianapolis, who pre- 
sided at the election, representing the Ordinary, was 
no stranger to the Sisters, for in his capacity of 

(188) 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 189 

Chancellor of the diocese he had proved himself a 
kind and considerate friend. Hence they esteemed 
it a high privilege to he permitted to greet him when 
he came to them robed in the pontifical purple of the 
episcopal office. 

On February 2d, 1900, feast of the Purification 
of the Blessed Virgin, the oratory in the new 
Academy was blessed and the Stations of the Cross 
which had adorned the Sisters' former Chapel were, 
after a thorough renovation, placed therein by can- 
onical erection. A beautiful altar in white and gold, 
Romanesque in style, forms the principal ornament 
of the Oratory. It was the generous gift of Mrs. 
H. Dillhoff, whose daughter, Sister M. Clarissa, is 
among the teachers of the Academy. A lovely 
statue of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, to which 
the little chapel is dedicated, occupies the main niche, 
while angels with scrolls bearing the inscription, 
"Tota Pulchra Es, Maria/' cc Et Macula Non Est 
Li Tc, }} fill the niches on either side. The new pews 
are of quartered, golden oak, and correspond with 
the settings of the Stations. Tout ensemble, the 
Oratory is a gem of art and beauty. This Oratory 
is fifty-two feet long by thirty feet wide, spacious 
enough indeed, and appropriately furnished, to make 
a congregation proud to have a church like it. 
What a difference, too, between this large and beau- 
tiful Chapel, and the primitive little oratory, ten by 



190 Historical Sketch. . 

ten feet, which, in its time, was furnished by two 
pupils, now ladies beloved and respected by a wide 
circle of friends. 

On February 7th, one of the pupils, aged sixteen, 
died after a brief illness. A pure, white lily, her 
soul was recalled by its Creator in the springtime of 
life. With her mother's consent, she was received 
into the Church on her death-bed, the Rev. Father 
Director Capistran Heitmann administering con- 
ditional baptism to her. 

The first of May, our heavenly Mother's month, 
is always observed as a grand fete in the Academy 
and Convent, as on that day the junior pupils pre- 
pared for the great event, are admitted to the recep- 
tion of their First Holy Communion in the Convent 
Church. A solemn High Mass marks the occasion 
every year. 

On Ascension Day, the Right Rev. Bishop 
Chatard administered the Sacrament of Confirmation 
to a large class, and invested seven postulants with 
the religious habit. 

The feast of Corpus Christi, this year June 14th, 
was observed with the usual solemn procession of the 
Blessed Sacrament. 

The new Convent building was rapidly approach- 
ing completion. On June 26th, the Sisters were en- 
abled to take possession of several apartments, and 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 191 

when the Mission Sisters arrived for vacation, a 
number of additional rooms were ready. 

.We deem it expedient, for the gratification of the 
reader, to insert here a somewhat detailed descrip- 
tion of the 

New Convent and Academy. 

The foundation complete, Messrs. Harig and 
Brueggemann were selected as general contractors 
of the edifice, exclusive of the stone masonry, tiling 
and electricity. Their work has made this building 
foremost of its kind as to strength, solidity, fire- 
proof qualities and adaptability. All the walls, ex- 
terior and interior, built of hard-burned brick, are 
laid in Utica cement mortar. The outside arches 
are of Bedford stone. The ventilating flues are 
lined with the best quality of flue linings. 

The floors, partitions, columns and beam cover- 
ings are made of hollow tile, set in Portland cement. 
All the floors from the first story to the attic are con- 
creted in the best manner. 

The iron and steel work is of the best grade. All 
beams, channels, angles, plates and shop-rivets are of 
the best steel. The stainvays throughout the build- 
ing are of iron, the treads of Bangor slate. The rail- 
ings of wrought iron are artistically molded, and the 
newel posts are richly ornamented. Vitrified tile, 



192 Historical Sketch. 

consisting of tablets three-fourth inches square, cover 
the grand corridor floors. The field of these floors 
is very simple, yet beautiful, cream-colored and much 
enhanced by the far-famed fleur de lis. while the 
twelve-inch border is richly ornamented. The 
wainscotting. too, is of vitreous tile with an elegant 
border and neat capping. The tile was furnished by 
the Mosaic Tile Company, of Zanesville, Ohio. 

The heating apparatus, plumbing and gas fix- 
tures, furnished by Prox and Brinkmann, of Terre 
Haute, Indiana, meet all demands satisfactorily. 
The former was under the supervision of Mr. Tap- 
penbeck and the latter of Mr. Tully. 

The electric plant was furnished by Mr. Hatfield, 
of Indianapolis. Messrs. Borchelt and son, of Old- 
enburg, are the Convent engineers and electricians. 

The carpenter work of the entire building is very 
elaborate, but simple. The wood material used 
throughout, is quartered oak. Messrs. Feldkamp 
and Weber superintended this department, and the 
work clone is the witness as to the outcome. 

The polishing of floors, painting and glazing, is 
the work of the Convent's old-time and staunch 
friend, Mr. Frank Peine, whose greatest delight it 
is to add his mite to the improvement and beauty of 
the structure. 

This magnificent building is four stories high, 




os J5 

h-J to 



18 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 193 

exclusive of basement and attic. On the first floor, 
of St. Teresa's Hall, to the east, are situated the 
oratory, with its chaste and harmonious adorn- 
ments ; on the west, the young ladies' reception 
parlor ; south of this, the business department and 
a number of recitation rooms. 

Then comes the library, the chosen Eden of every 
Academician. The floor is parquet in geometrical 
design, the main figure of which is quartered oak, 
with ornamentations of cherry, mahogany and white 
pine. An effective border of the same material en- 
hances and completes this most attractive piece of 
art, donated by Miss Frances Stomps. The cases, 
massive table, elegant settees, all of antique oak, are 
the gifts of one of the old girls and her generous hus- 
band, Mr. S. Leonard, of Pensacola, Florida. Dr. 
Leahy, Mrs. Nienaber, Miss Huelefeld, of Cincin- 
nati, Ohio, and Mrs. Mann, of Muncie, Ind., each 
also contributed generously to the furnishing of 
this favored spot. 

Upon and above the cases are the busts and por- 
traits of some of the most noted literati of ancient 
and modern times. Prominent among these is a 
picture of Holy Father Leo XIII., the only surviv- 
ing member of the famous Trio of the Nineteenth 
Century. The fine cases are generously stocked 
with the very best works of English, German, 



194 Historical Sketch. 

French, Italian and Spanish authors, treating on 
religions, philosophical and scientific subjects, not 
excluding the most approved works of fiction and 
current topics. 

Adjoining the library are the students' reception 
hall, several private parlors, and the business offices 
of the Mother, Assistant and Directress of the Acad- 
emy. To the west is a suite of apartments of the 
Superior General and her Assistant, and to the north 
are the rooms used for the manufacture of church 
ornaments of various descriptions, and the telephone 
office, containing house, local and Bell's distant 
'phones. Still farther north are the Community's 
refectories, and the pupils' dining halls. Adjoining 
these are the culinary and laundry departments, all 
well equipped with modern and labor-saving ap- 
pliances. 

On the second floor east is the pupils' large and 
beautifully furnished, general study hall; west, the 
infirmary with its various departments, so happily 
designed for sanitary purposes. Now follows an- 
other suite of recitation rooms. South of these is 
a museum and science department, elegantly fur- 
nished and containing rare and valuable collections 
of geological, mineralogical, botanical and zoological 
specimens. To the west is a suite of private rooms 
for the accommodation of pupils. Passing to the 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 195 

southwest, is found the Directress' room, and west of 
this are the pharmacy and dispensary. Still farther 
west are the Community rooms and the cells of the 
Sisters. 

On the third floor, to the east, is a most attractive 
hall used for the plain and fancy needlework depart- 
ment. \Yest and south of this are the various dor- 
mitories and lavatories. 

The fourth floor contains the elegantly equipped 
art studios and galleries, also the laboratories. 

Aloft in aerial realms, on a roof to the west, is a 
practically designed observatory, to be equipped in 
the near future. The spacious and well-lighted at- 
tic and basement, the latter thoroughly cemented and 
ventilated, afford a desirable location for a o>vmna- 
sium and bowling alley. 

The south-east wing contains the grand audi- 
torium on the first, a fine music-hall on the second, 
a conveniently arranged wardrobe and linen depart- 
ment on the third floor. 

The academic course has been steadily extended 
under the present faculty, whose aim has ever been 
to elevate the institution to the highest point of ex- 
cellence in science, arts, self-culture, and above all in 
the aids afforded to the acquisition of those beautiful 
virtues which form the crown and charm of true 
womanhood. 



196 Historical Sketch. 

The visits of the Right Rev. Bishop F. S. 
Chatard, who is widely known for his enthusiastic 
devotion to the cause of education, are joyfully hailed 
by the pupils in general, the Minims, for whom he 
entertains a marked predilection, in particular. All 
that eager, loving hearts and willing hands can ac- 
complish is brought in requisition to prove the 
students' high esteem of the distinguished prelate 
and brilliant scholar. The receptions given on these 
occasions consist of literary and musical gems. 
These epochs are calendared among the Academy's 
red-letter days. 

The annual Commencement Exercises of the year 
1900 took place on June 28th, and were graced by 
the presence of Right Rev. Bishop Chatard and Right 
Rev. Bishop O'Donaghue, and under the direction of 
Sister M. Veronica, who has been Directress of this 
flourishing Institution for the past twenty years 
A great number of priests and visitors had come, so 
that the spacious auditorium could not accommodate 
all. The Right Rev. Bishop O'Donaghue distributed 
the prizes, and addressed the pupils and visitors in 
his own inimitable, happy style. The Graduates' 
essays were exceptionally fine and treated the sub- 
jects " Honor," "Virtue," "Education," in a masterly 
style, subjects worthy indeed, of philosopher's thesis. 
"Virtue," the fairest and brightest pearl of earth, 




Rt. Rev. Denis O'Donaghue. 




O rt 

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Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 197 

"Honor/' that Wordsworth styles ''the finest sense 
of justice, which the human mind can frame," and 
"Education" based upon morality and religion, con- 
stitute the gleaming and all-encompassing motto of 
the Triune Standard, which waves proudly from 
the classic heights of Oldenburg's Academy of the 
Immaculate Conception. It has ever been the con- 
stant aim of the faculty to raise higher and higher 
this Triune Standard, and unhesitatingly can it be 
added in truth, that the results attained, are of the 
happiest nature, as the Acadamy has gained the 
highest degree of success, and ranks favorably 
among the best literary Institutions in the country. 

The music too was of the highest order. This 
department has been under the supervision of Sister 
Marina for the past twenty-five years. The art 
exhibition, and samples of needle work, gave ample 
proof of the pupils' proficiency. These two depart- 
ments have been under the charge of Sisters Leo 
and Arsenia, respectively, also for quite a number 
of years. 

As usual, at the beginning of July, all the 
Sisters had arrived from the various missions. On 
the 15th, the annual retreat began. It was con- 
ducted by Rev. Father Chrysostom Theobald, O. 
F. M. At its close, the Right Rev. Bishop made 
the canonical visitation of the Community, after 



198 Historical Sketch. 

which he invested four postulants with the religious 
habit, received the first vows of twenty-eight 
novices, and admitted eighteen Sisters to their 
quinquennial, and eight to their perpetual vows. 

The ceremonies attending these religious func- 
tions are always very impressive, and mark an epoch 
in the history of the Community. 

On the feast of the Immaculate Conception, so 
dear to the hearts of Sisters and pupils, an imposing 
ceremony was performed. The monastic and 
academic buildings having been completed on a 
grand scale, they were dedicated with appropriate 
prayers and blessings as had been the lowly Convent 
and Chapel of fifty years agone. The solemn rite 
was begun at 8 a. m., the organ pealing forth in 
sublime and harmonious tones, the "Veni Creator 
Spiritus" Thereupon the procession moved from 
the beautifully decorated Chapel, to the new Cloister 
and Academy. The younger pupils, clad in snowy- 
vesture, followed the banner of the Immaculate Con- 
ception, borne aloft by a young maiden robed in the 
colors of Our Lady. Now came the young ladies 
of the Sodality of the Blessed Virgin Mary, then 
came a cleric, bearing the processional cross. The 
Reverend Clergy, in the rich vestments of white and 
gold, now followed, and finally all the members of 
the Community then present in the Mother-house. 




Pupils' Oratory of the Immaculate Heart of Mary — Altar. 

Donor: Mrs. L. Kohus (nee L. Dillhoff). 



19 




ft -S 

< .. 



Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Ind. 



19! > 



Arrived at the Grand Entrance the usual prayers and 
ceremonies, so replete with unction and significance, 
were performed. Hereupon the procession entered 
the Academy precincts and proceeded to the Oratory. 
From this hallowed spot the Rev. Clergy wended 
their way through the spacious corridors, blessing 
them and the various apartments, while the Sisters 
and pupils chanted the Litany of Lorreto, the Mag- 
nificat, (C Macula Non Est In Te" and other appro- 
priate canticles. 

"Blessed are they that dwell in Thy house, O 
Lord; they shall praise Thee forever and ever." 
(Ps.88,5.) 





g 



in § 

o 



CONCLUSION, 



BOOKING backward, through the vista of fifty 
Hi! years, we followed our faithful guide through 
the experiences, struggles, trials and attainments of 
the Oldenburg Community during the period of ex- 
periment, prosperity and success. Could the most 
vivid imagination of those who lived in and with the 
Community at the beginning of the past half cen- 
tury have pictured to their minds what we now see 
achieved in reality, they would have called the pic- 
ture a dream. 

But the parable of the mustard-seed in this in- 
stance has been wonderfully verified. We wit- 
nessed the expansion of the minute grain into a 
giant tree from which the divine husbandman has 
garnered a plentiful harvest. 

With sincere and holy joy the present members 
of the Community, and those pupils who are still 
living, look back on the years gone by, hoping and 
praying that the future of this deserving Community 
of Sisters of St. Francis, and of their Academic 
Institute, may continue to enjoy God's choicest bless- 
ings to the fullest extent. 

(201) 



202 Historical Sketch. 

And when another cycle of five decades shall 
have been engulfed in the abyss of eternity, another 
pen, we hope, and one guided by a mind more re- 
tentive and by a hand more deft, will transmit to a 
grateful and admiring posterity what God has 
wrought through the unselfish fidelity to duty which 
is the characteristic of the humble daughters of St. 
Francis of the Oldenburg Community. 




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M. Blanche. 
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nes, M. Canisia. 


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M. Adelina. 

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Dec. 27, 1880 
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0. F. M. 
Rev. A. Feigen. 


Rev. C. Schoepp- 
ner, O. F. M. 
Rev. J. J. Macke. 

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ON THE CEMETERY. 



At the graves their vigil keeping 
Stand united Faith and Love: 
Love afflicted, mournful, weeping, 
Faith with comfort from above. 



List of Deceased Sisters* 



Name in Religion. 


Family Name. 


Date c 


)f Death. 


M. Brigitta. 


T. Fischesser. 


Feb. 


13, 1855. 


M. Pacifica. 


E. Schmutte. 


Dec. 


3. 1858. 


M. Philomena. 


A. O'Brien. 


Jan. 


25, 1859. 


M. Gabriela. 


L. Ehret. 


Feb. 


10, 1859. 


M. Agatha. 


C. Renneker. 


July 


5, 1859. 


Ven. Mother Teresa. 


M. Hackelmeier. 


Sept. 


27, i860. 


M. Philomena. 


M. Krauser. 


Nov. 


15, i860. 


M. Veronica. 


F. Rudolf. 


Aug. 


8, 1861. 


M. Alphonsa. 


M. Schaeffer. 


Nov. 


28. 1861. 


M. Joseph. 


M. McCloskey. 


Nov. 


11, 1862. 


M. Scholastica. 


C. Schittler. 


July 


26, 1863. 


M. Rosa. 


G. Eschen. 


Feb. 


Q. 1864. 


M. Lucia. 


M. Laufermann. 


March 13, 1864. 


M. Brigitta. 


T. Weber. 


July 


2, 1864. 


M. Regina. 


M. Pohlmann. 


July 


28, 1864. 


M. Frances. 


P. Feh. 


Aug. 


17, 1864. 


M. Delphina. 


R. Herman. 


Oct. 


29, 1864. 


M. Maria. 


E. Miller. 


July 


24, 1865. 


M. Augustina. 


E. Schuette. 


Oct. 


22. 1865. 


M. Gertrude. 


F. Lirider. 


Marc 


hi 15. 1866. 


M. Emerentina. 


P. Dunning. 


May 


6, 1867. 


M. Emilia. 


M. Washburn. 


Nov. 


2, 1867. 


M. Catherine. 


T. Buchmeier. 


Aug. 


1. 1868. 



(215) 



LIST OF DECEASED SISTERS. 



Name in Religion. 


Family Name. 


Date c 


f Death. 


M. Hildegardis. 


J. Schreiner. 


March 20, 1869. 


M. Fidelia. 


H. Junker. 


April 


1, 1869. 


M. Justina. 


E. Fagan. 


Nov. 


15, 1869. 


M. Pacifica. 


C. Heinrich. 


Aug. 


9, 1870. 


M. Ludovica. 


E. Heckmann. 


Aug. 


19, 1870. 


M. Theodora. 


A. Hesse. 


Feb. 


1, 1872. 


Ven. Mother Antonia. 


T. Dreer 


March 23, 1872. 


1VL Hermina. 


M. Schoene. 


March 28, 1872. 


M. Armella. 


M. Biermann. 


Sept. 


27, 1872. 


M. Perpetua. 


S. Ford. 


Nov. 


19, 1872. 


M. Frances. 


A. Potzel. 


Dec. 


14, 1872. 


M. Regula. 


M. Fischer. 


Dec. 


22, 1872. 


M. Lucia. 


E. Embick. 


Jan. 


5, 1873. 


M. Theodora. 


A. Scheib. 


Jan. 


5, 1873. 


M. Paula. 


J. Byrne. 


March 12, 1873. 


M. Victoria. 


C. Quirnbach. 


April 


2, 1873. 


M. Fidelia. 


T. Duly. 


April 


28, 1873. 


M. Agnes. 


H. Essmann. 


May 


2, 1873. 


M. Valeria. 


W. Heile. 


May 


27, 1873. 


M. Blandina. 


B. Ohrde. 


Aug. 


28, 1874. 


M. Ignatia. 


C. Dot. 


Sept. 


28, 1874. 


M. Agatha. 


E. Schulte. 


Feb. 


28, 1875. 


M. Rosalia. 


E. Eschen. 


April 


21, 1875. 


M. Aloysia. 


C. Schwendel. 


May 


29, 1875. 


M. Lydia. 


A. Feist. 


Feb. 


24, 1876. 


M. Prisca. 


E. Mucker. 


Feb. 


28, 1876. 


M. Innocentia. 


T. Schmidt. 


Aug. 


8, 1876. 


M. Theophila. 


P. Heil. 


\ug. 


27, 1876. 


M. Pelagia. 


B. Zink. 


Feb. 


24. 1877. 


M. Rosa. 


L. Steigleiter. 


March 29, 1877. 



(216) 



LIST OF DECEASED SISTERS. 



Name in Religion. 


Family Name. 


Date of 


Death. 


M. Matilda. 


M. Yogelgesang. 


May. 


26, 1877 


M. Margaret. 


B. Schay. 


July 


4, 1877. 


M. Theopista. 


B. Bruenemann. 


Oct. 


19, 1877. 


M. Rosalia. 


J. Mueller. 


June 


22, 1878. 


M. Felicitas. 


M. Massmann. 


Jan. 


13, 1879. 


M. Cecilia. 


C. Bennett. 


Jan. 


27, 1879. 


M. Blandina. 


E. Foppe. 


April 


17, 1879. 


M. Leonarda. 


E. Nurre. 


June 


4, 1879. 


M. Concordia. 


C. Zeller. 


June 


23, 1879. 


M. Amadea. 


M. Kranz. 


Sept. 


1, 1879. 


M. Yincentia. 


J. Winter. 


Oct. 


15, 1879. 


M. Basilia. 


C. Frey. 


Jan. 


19,1880. 


M. Seraphica. 


A. Rutledge. 


March 


4, 1880. 


M. Gregoria. 


M. Wolf. 


April 


19, 1880. 


M. Celestine. 


A. Weibel. 


Dec. 


28, 1880. 


M. Irene. 


M. Herman. 


Jan. 


13. 1881. 


M. Martha. 


S. Stecher. 


Marc? 


l 5,1881. 


M. Thecla. 


E. Lux. 


March 


6, 1881. 


M. Magdalen. 


L. Grotepoehler. 


June 


28, 1881. 


M. Martina. 


M. Schauerich. 


Oct. 


15, 1881. 


M. Agnes. 


M. Kreke. 


Nov. 


13, 1881. 


M. Elisabeth. 


A. Zwinger. 


May 


2, 1882 


M. Margaret. 


M. Ehlinger. 


June 


26, 1882. 


M." Natalia. 


M. Lienert. 


June 


30, 1882. 


M. Agnella. 


| B. Lenon. 


June 


30, 1882. 


M. Xaveria. 


B. Kliig. 


Dec. 


25, 1882. 


M. Anacleta. 


M. Moser. 


Jan. 


8, 1883. 


M. Magdalen. 


B. Saenger. 


March 13, 1883. 


M. Rosina. 


E. Endris. 


March 25, 1883. 


M. Alacoque. 


A. Cohu. 


Sept. 


5, 1883. 



(217 



LIST OF DECEASED SISTERS. 



Name in Religion. 


Family Name. 


Date o 


f Death. 


M. Bernardette. 


C. Ebelhardt. 


Nov. 


21, 1883. 


M. Raymunda. 


M. Hinkel. 


Nov. 


24, 1883. 


M. Teresa. 


C. Moenich. 


Dec. 


1. 1883. 


M. Angelica. 


M. Knuf. 


Dec. 


8, 1883. 


M. Rosina. 


P. Buchholz. 


March 26, 1884. 


Ven. Mother Michaela. 


E. Lindemann. 


April 


9, 1884. 


M. Antonia. 


T. Siddall. 


May 


3. 1884. 


M. Philothea. 


B. Jung. 


May 


18, 1884. 


M. Camilla. 


M. Weber. 


June 


19, 1884. 


M. Anna. 


C. Guendling. 


July 


12. 1884. 


M. Gonzaga. 


M. Busse. 


Sept. 


18. 1884. 


M. Paula. 


C. Hoffmann. 


Jan. 


1, 1885. 


M. Ephrem. 


A. Heiberger. 


Jan. 


6, 1885. 


M. Ferdinanda. 


M. Dickhaus. 


June 


8, 1885. 


M. Germana. 


E. Efhnger. 


June 


30, 1885. 


M. Frederica. 


J. Heimburger. 


Aug. 


21, 1885. 


M. Bartholomea. 


E. Huber. 


Sept. 


16, 1885. 


M. Agnella. 


E. Laughlin. 


Oct. 


19, 1885. 


M. Seraphica. 


M. Straub. 


Jan. 


28. 1886. 


M. Barbara. 


M. Franken. 


Feb. 


7, 1886. 


M. Euphrosina. 


J. Weber. 


Feb. 


16, 1886. 


M. Benedicta. 


M. Zink. 


May 


6, 1886. 


M. Paula. 


E. Reising. 


May 


11, 1886 


M. Agnella. 


C. Connor. 


Sept. 


22, 1886 


M. Joseph. 


M. Dirschel. 


Oct. 


17, 1886. 


M. Mathia. 


R. Wuest. 


Nov. 


13, 1886 


M. Thaddea. 


J. Thomann. 


Nov. 


16, 1886. 


M. Teresa. 


F. Herner. 


Dec. 


30, 1886 


M. Stephania. 


R. Kressmann. 


Jan. 


7, 1887. 


M. Baptista. 


C. Bauer. 


Jan. 


7, 1887. 



(218) 



LIST OF DECEASED SISTERS. 



Name in Religion. 



Family Name. 



M. Amalia. 
M. Servatia. 
M. Ivo. 
M. Alphonsa. 
M. Leandra. 
M. Alberta. 
M. Aegidia. 
M. Justina. 
M. Flavia. 
M. Ubalda. 
M. Felicitas. 
M. Bernardetta. 
M. Valeria. 
M. Clementina. 
~\J. Silveria. 
M. Paula. 
M. Wilfrida. 
M. Antonia. 
M. Augusta. 
M. Alana. 
M. Angelica. 
M. Placida. 
M. Seraphica. 
M. Loyola. 
M. Emilia. 
M. Justina. 
M. Adelgundis. 
M. Liboria. 
M. Clara. 
M. Stephania. 



Date of Death. 



M. Schuck. 


Jan. 


7, 1887. 


C. Denner. 


Jan. 


19, 1887. 


J. Busam. 


Feb. 


27, 1887. 


T. Mangers. 


Feb. 


8. 1887. 


J. Guth. 


June 


13, 1887. 


M. Schmidt. 


June 


17, 1887. 


M. Koelsch. 


Sept. 


9. 1887. 


M. Lindenberger 


Oct. 


2, 1887. 


E. Baehr. 


Oct. 


15, 1887. 


F. Stehmann. 


Oct. 


21, 1887. 


F. Gumbei. 


Dec. 


22. 1887. 


E. Oswald. 


Jan. 


17. 1888. 


M. Koopers. 


July 


8, 1888 


H. Schipper. 


Aug. 


29, 1888. 


M. Backscheider. 


Oct. 


28, 1888. 


J. Stump. 


Dec. 


5, 1888. 


L. Meyer. 


Dec. 


30, 1888. 


J. Olberding. 


May 


27, 1889. 


M. Wiesemann. 


June 


2, 1889. 


B. Huse. 


July 


11, 1889. 


J. Blank. 


Aug. 


11, 1889. 


A. Gumbei. 


Oct. 


14, 1889. 


A. Hot*. 


Jan. 


20, 1890. 


M. Gaugel. 


Feb. 


7, 1890. 


M. Hubert. 


May 


21, 1890. 


M. Faller. 


June 


26. 1890. 


B. Baehl. 


July 


14, 1890. 


B. Rengers. 


Oct. 


1, 1890. 


M. Worland. 


Feb. 


9, 1891. 


M. Oefelein. 


July 


3, 1891. 



219) 



LIST OF DECEASED SISTERS. 



Name in Religion. 


Family Name. 


Date o 


f Death. 


M. Concordia. 


H. Weger. 


July 


22, 1891. 


M. Domitilla. 


M. Sprenger. 


Sept. 


2, 1891. 


M. Charitas. 


E. Lindemann. 


Sept. 


8, 1891. 


M. Eustachia. 


M. Delaney. 


Sept. 


23, 1891. 


M. Euphrosina. 


E. Sauer. 


Sept. 


28, 1891. 


M. Eusebia. 


A. Gieske. 


Oct. 


14, 1891. 


M. Huberta. 


B. Knapp. 


Jan. 


28. 1892. 


M. Magdalen. 


T. Saenger. 


Jan. 


30, 1892. 


M. Angela. 


C. Berberich. 


Feb. 


11, 1892. 


M. Philiberta. 


A. Baiters. 


Feb. 


17, 1892. 


M. Engelberta. 


A. Buehler. 


April 


17, 1892. 


M. Valeria. 


E. Schueth. 


Dec. 


26, 1892. 


M. Stanislas. 


M. Brunsmann. 


Aug. 


18. 1893. 


M. Bede. 


B. Redelberger. 


Sept. 


15, 1893. 


M. Aegidia. 


R. Ziegler. 


Sept. 


28, 1893. 


M. Alacoque. 


C. Krug. 


Jan. 


15, 1894. 


M. Bertina. 


M. Mclnnally. 


March 6, 1894. 


M. Alberta. 


D. Wuest. 


March 14, 1894. 


M. Philomena. 


C. Huelsmann. 


March 30, 1894. 


M. Prudentia. 


D. Burkert. 


April 


19, 1894. 


M. Maurelia. 


T. O'Brien. 


May 


2, 1894. 


M. Adriana. 


M. Backer. 


June 


11. 1894. 


M. Ludgardis. 


A. Rohians. 


June 


29. 1894. 


M. Devota. 


R. Meidel. 


Aug. 


22, 1894. 


M. Gervasia. 


R. Ritzel. 


Nov. 


8, 1894. 


M. Justina. 


E. Sieve. 


Nov. 


29, 1894. 


M. Avellina. 


E. Miller. 


Dec. 


11, 1894. 


M. Mauritia. 


K. Lagemann. 


Jan. 


29, 1895. 


M. Thaddea. 


M. Hittle. 


Feb. 


14, 1895. 


M. Rita. 


E. Heck. 


March 31, 1895. 



(220) 



LIST OF DECEASED SISTERS. 



Name in Religion. 


Family Name. 


1 )ate o 


f Death. 


M. Editha. 


Al. Kemper. 


May 


15, 18! 10. 


M. Benitia. 


H. Saenger. 


June 


15, 1895. 


M. Teresa. 


H. Jacquo. 


June 


9, 1895. 


M. Joseph. 


E. Dxkraaun. 


July 


21, 1895. 


M. Vitalis. 


M. Stehmann. 


Oct. 


29, 1895. 


M. Leonarda. 


M. O'Connor. 


Dec. 


4, 1895. 


M. Ursula. 


C. Wilhelm. 


May 


3, 1896. 


M. Leouida. 


M. Zimmermann. 


June 


10.1896. 


M. Patricia. 


A. McCarthy. 


June 


26, 1896. 


M. Honora. 


E. Elpers. 


Sept. 


7, 1896. 


M. Clementia. 


M. Elpers. 


Dec. 


16, 1896. 


M. Viola. 


M. Walter. 


Jan. 


29, 1897. 


M. Georgiana. 


A. Bnsse. 


May 


2, 1897. 


M. Rita. 


B. Wischer. 


July 


30. 1897. 


M. Ottilia. 


A. Weghorst. 


Aug. 


1, 1897. 


M. Mercedes. 


H. Litzelmann. 


Aug. 


25, 1897. 


M. Seraphina. 


B. Hartmann. 


Oct. 


20, 1897. 


M. James. 


J. McCabe. 


Oct. 


26, 1898. 


M. Innocentia. 


M. Brueggemann. 


Oct. 


27, 1898. 


M. Verena. 


M. Hofmeier. 


Oct. 


29, 1898. 


M. Cnpertina. 


C. Briem. 


April 


29, 1899. 


M. Michaela. 


F. Gregory. 


May 


6, 1899. 


M. Marcella. 


M. Lindenberger. 


Oct. 


8. 1899. 


M. Ludgardis. 


M. Duesing. 


Nov. 


1, 1899. 


M. Aurea. 


M. Egan. 


Nov. 


10, 1899. 


M. Ivo. 


P. Weigand. 


Jan. 


10, 1900. 


M. Generosa. 


C. Herman. 


March 2,1900. 


M. Alberta. 


R. Endress. 


March 7, 1900. 


M. Landelina. 


E. Schwener. 


June 


5, 1900. 


M. Ambrosina. 


T. Volz. 


Aug. 


29, J 900. 


M. Daniela. 


M. Gillig. 


Oct. 


22, 1900. 



. 221 1 



Present Members of the Community. 



I. PROFESSED SISTERS. 



Name in Religion. 


Family Name. 


Date 
of En- 
trance. 


Ven. Mother M. Olivia, 


Caroline Brockmann. 


1865. 


Superior General. 






Ven. Sister M. Clotilda. 


Cunigunda Hartig. 


1868. 


Assistant. 






Ven. Sister M. Veronica, 


Magdalene Rudolf. 


1863. 


Consultrix. 






Ven. Sister M. Petrina, 


Caroline Dickmann. 


1857. 


Consultrix. 






Ven. Sister M. Aquilina, 


Elizabeth Heile. 


1871. 


Consultrix. 






Sister M. Bernardine. 


Anna Maria Schaefer. 


1852. 


Sister M. Mechtildis. 


Barbara Neu. 


1855. 


Sister M. Dorothea. 


Teresa Michael. 


1855. 


Sister M. Raphaela. 


Elisabeth Vorjohann. 


1857. 


Sister M. Joanna. 


Mary Brokam. 


1858. 


Sister M. Genevieve. 


Elisabeth Ehvell. 


I860. 


Sister M. Julia. 


Magdalen Fischer. 


1861. 


Sister M. Bonaventura. 


Paulina Smith. 


1861. 


Sister M. Crescentia. 


Rosina Vogelgesang. 


1861. 


Sister M. Blanca. 


Bridget Smith. 


1861. 


Sister M. Isabella. 


Catharine Fagan. 


1861. 


Sister M. Amata. 


Juliana Winstel. 


1862. 


Sister M. Dominica. 


Elisabeth Sutter. 


1862. 



(222) 



PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. 



Name in Religion. 


Family Name. 


Date 

of En- 








trance. 


Sister M. 


Eleon'ora. 


Clara Waechter. 


1863. 


Sister M. 


Sophia. 


Anna Mueller. 


1803. 


Sister M. 


Coleta. 


Elisabeth Kaeter. 


1863. 


Sister M. 


Florentina. 


Alary Franz. 


18G3. 


Sister M. 


Balbina. 


Catherine Kramer. 


1803. 


Sister M. 


Melania. 


Mary Dickmann. 


18G3. 


Sister M. 


Helena. 


Margaret Temmeri. 


18G4. 


Sister M. 


Anastasia. 


Josephine Herman. 


1864. 


Sister M. 


Scholastics. 


Anna M. Wagner. 


18G5. 


Sister M. 


Christina. 


Elisabeth Leavy. 


1865. 


Sister M. 


Euphrasia 


Teresa O'Neil. 


18G5. 


Sister M. 


Sabina. 


Elisabeth Lokamp. 


18G5. 


Sister M. 


Delphina. 


Louisa Rudolf. 


1865. 


Sister M. 


Augustina. 


Teresa Schulte. 


18Go. 


Sister M. 


Brigitta. 


Philomena Weber. 


1865. 


Sister M. 


Regina. 


Elisabeth Weber. 


18G5. 


Sister M. 


Ambrosia. 


Elisabeth Gottwalles. 


1866. 


Sister M. 


Ida. 


Maria Sitzmann. 


18GG. 


Sister M. 


Philippina. 


Ursula Scheuerich. 


18GG. 


Sister M. 


Gertrude. 


Alary Fettig. 


18GG. 


Sister M. 


Ludwina. 


Anna K. Elfinthal. 


18G7. 


Sister M. 


Susanna. 


Anna Steffen. 


18G7. 


Sister M. 


Cornelia. 


Anna M. Steffen. 


18G7. 


Sister M. 


Henrietta. 


Philomena Bleichner. 


18G7. 


Sister M. 


Hedwig. 


Anna Schildmeier. 


18G8. 


Sister M. 


Caroline. 


Anna Schwert. 


18G8. 


Sister M. 


Catherine. 


Margaret Dreidemi. 


18G8. 


Sister M. 


Emerentina. 


Rosalia Kaltenbach. 


18G8. 


Sister M. 


Josephina. 


Caroline Rahn. 


1868. 


Sister M. 


Canisia. 


Magdalen Moster. 


1868. 



PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. 



Name 


in Religion. 

Petronilla. 


Family Name. 

Joanna Xiemoeller. 


Date 
of En- 
trance. 


Sister M. 


1868. 


Sister M. 


Fridolina. 


Barbara Weber. 


1868. 


Sister M. 


Floriana. 


Louisa Reimann. 


18G1>. 


Sister M. 


Marina. 


Barbara Kerker. 


1869. 


Sister M. 


Wilhelmina. 


Mary Luestermann. 


1869. 


Sister M. 


Secunda. 


Rosalia Halter. 


1869. 


Sister M. 


Salesia. 


Mary Poggel. 


1869. 


Sister M. 


Bertha. 


Mary Wobrath. 


1869. 


Sister M. 


Ludmilla. 


Philomena Schoettelkoette. 


1869. 


Sister M. 


Priscilla. 


Genevieve Flaig. 


1869. 


Sister M. 


Eulalia. 


Josephine Gaertner. 


1869. 


Sister M. 


Arsenia. 


Catherine Paul. 


1869. 


Sister M. 


Hildegardis. 


Teresa Schert. 


1870. 


Sister M. 


Julitta. 


Catherine Ramming. 


1870. 


Sister M. 


Aurelia. 


Mary A. Hentrich. 


1870. 


Sister M. 


Euphemia. 


Elisabeth Kail. 


1870; 


Sister M. 


Vestina. 


Catherine Jnettemeier. 


187o. 


Sister M. 


Anisia. 


Mary Schone. 


1870. 


Sister M. 


Symphorosa. 


Agnes Wallrabe. 


1871. 


Sister M. 


Columba. 


Clara Vodde. 


1871. 


Sister M. 


Veneranda. 


Catherine Huser. 


1871. 


Sister M. 


Alexandria. 


Caroline Hillebrandt. 


1871. 


Sister M. 


Firmina. 


Mary Paul. 


1871. 


Sister M. 


Monica. 


Josephine Ruebelke. 


1872. 


Sister M. 


Isidora. 


Bernardine M. Gieske. 


1872. 


Sister M. 


Dionysia. 


Mary Doll. 


1872. 


Sister M. 


YVendelina. 


Catherine Reilensberger. 


1872. 


Sister M. 


Theodosia. 


Mary Koke. 


1872. 


Sister M. 


Athanasia. 


^lary A. Xaber. 


1872. 


Sister M. 


Armella. 


Catherine Schmidt. 


1872. 



(■224) 



PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. 



Name in Religion. 


Family Name. 


Date 
of En- 
trance. 


Sister M. 


Frances. 


Catherine Brichler. 


1873. 


Sister M. 


Rnfina. 


Catherine Menke. 


1873. 


Sister M. 


J. Evangelista. 


Rosa Dull. 


1873. 


Sister M. 


Theodora. 


Margaret Hesse. 


1873. 


Sister M. 


Laurenti i. 


Elisabeth Schmidt. 


1873. 


Sister M. 


Gabriela. 


Augusta Quandt. 


1874. 


Sister M. 


Amanda. 


Caroline Ferkenhoff. 


1874. 


Sister M. 


Constantia. 


Catherine Freise. 


1874. 


Sister M. 


Ignatia. 


Wilhelmina Johanna. 


1875. 


Sister M. 


Aloysia. 


Anna Bitter 


1875. 


Sister M. 


Agatha. 


Catherine Schaefer. 


1875. 


Sister M. 


Antoinetta. 


Catherine Ferneding. 


1875. 


Sister M. 


Severina. 


Anna M. Moeller. 


1875. 


Sister M. 


Albertina. 


Mary Jostock. 


1875. 


Sister M. 


Anselma. 


Margaret Emge. 


1875. 


Sister M. 


Cleopha. 


Margaret Allstaetter. 


1876. 


Sister M. 


Calista. 


Magdalen Wolf. 


1876. 


Sister M. 


Adelina. 


Elisabeth Huser. 


1876. 


Sister M. 


Chrysostoma. 


Magdalen Bayer. 


1876. 


Sister M. 


Hilaria. 


Margaret Jung. 


1876. 


Sister M. 


Theophila. 


Margaret Kremer. 


1876. 


Sister M. 


Hermina. 


Magdalen Gamstaetter. 


1876. 


Sister M. 


Fabiana. 


Barbara Hauersperger. 


1876. 


Sister M. 


Lydia. 


Catherine Seib. 


1877. 


Sister M. 


Perpetua. 


Gertrude Spitzer. 


1877. 


Sister M, 


Andrea. 


Helen Bittner. 


1877. 


Sister M. 


Leocadia. 


Clara Doll. 


1878. 


Sister M. 


Pancratia. 


Caroline Mayer. 


1878. 


Sister M. 


Macaria. Y ' 


Charlotte Knaust. 


1878. 


Sister M. 


Dosithea.^x 


Sophia Werling. 


1878 



(225) 



PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. 



> 


arm 

M. 


in Religion. 


Family Name. 
Julia Lanergan. 


j-/ate 
of En- 
trance. 


Sister 


Fidelia. 


1878. 


Sister M. 


Fulgentia. S 


Christina Blaenker. 


1878. 


Sister M. 


Bernarda. S 


Anna Werling. 


1878. 


Sister 


M. 


Salome. / 


Mary A. Becker. 


1878. 


Sister 


M. 


Norberta. S 


Rosa Jochem. 


1878. 


Sister 


M. 


Alexia./ 


Elisabeth Zeller. 


1878. 


Sister 


M. 


Tharsilla./ 


Elisaheth Fischer. 


1878. 


Sister 


M. 


Demetria. 


Gertrude A. Jaeckels. 


1878. 


Sister 


M. 


Walburga. 


Margaret Buehler. 


1879. 


Sister 


M. 


Cecilia. 


Dorothea Raab. 


1879. 


Sister 


M. 


J. Leonissa. 


Frederica Heidlage. 


187.9. 


Sister 


M. 


Matilda. 


Elizabeth Schanz. 


1879. 


Sister 


M. 


Bonifacia. 


Joanna Moser. 


1879. 


Sister 


M. 


Victorina. 


Josephine Weintraut. 


1879. 


Sister 


M. 


Leo. 


Ottilia Marshall. 


1879. 


Sister 


M. 


Basilia. 


Margaret Appel. 


1880. 


Sister 


M. 


Blandina. 


Magdalen Schroff. 


1880. 


Sister 


M. 


Louisa. 


Emma Kragl. 


1880. 


Sister 


M. 


Vincentia. 


Mary Kempf. 


1880. 


Sister 


M. 


Pacifica. 


Regina Dorr. 


1880. 


Sister 


M. 


Apollonia. 


Susanna Silewski. 


1880. 


Sister 


M. 


Liguori. 


Catherine Gamstaetter. 


1880. 


Sister 


M. 


Adelheid. 


Caroline Faskc. 


1880. 


Sister 


M. 


Amadea. 


Josephine Kranz. 


1880. 


Sister M. 


Febronia. 


Alatilda Landherr. 


\m>. 


Sister 


M. 


Celestine. 


Frances Warendorff. 


1880. 


Sister M. 


Martha. 


Elisabeth Job. 


1881. 


Sister 


M. 


Thecla. 


Catherine Riehle. 


1881. 


Sister 


M. 


Edmunda. 


Elisabeth Hangs. 


1881. 


Sister 


M. 


Chrysantha. 


Margaret Knaust. 


1881. 



(22(5) 



PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. 



Name in Religion. 



Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 
Sister M. 



Dolorosa. 

Gottfrieda. 

Cassiana. 

Maxelinda. 

Pelagia. 

Lucina. 

Martina. 

Agnes. 

Remigia. 

Iphigenh. 

Regis. 

Elisabeth. 

De Sales. 

Rosa. 

Xaveria. 

Gaudentia. 

Solatia. 

Lioba. 

Syncletica. 

Honorata. 

Afra. 

Clarissa. 

Venantia. 

Angelina. 

Zita. 

Marcellina. 

Rosina. 

Alcantara. 

Cunigunda. 

Bonavita. 



Family Name. 


Date 
of En- 
trance. 


Rosalinda Frank. 


1881. 


Magdalena Goeswein. 


1881. 


Maria Kochert. 


1881. 


Victoria Kochert. 


1881. 


Amalia Falk. 


1881. 


Emma Fries. 


1881. 


Mary Meier. 


1881. 


Elizabeth Sauer. 


1881. 


Margaret Johnson. 


1881 


Adelheid Rnmp. 


1881. 


Barbara Krug. 


1881. 


Regina Buerge. 


1881. 


Anna Olberding. 


1881. 


Anna Droitcour. 


1881. 


Frances Kessing. 


1883. 


Catherine Geiser. 


1883. 


Anna Sauer. 


1883 


Julia Oefelein. 


1883 


Mary Baldns. 


1883 


Anna Sunder. 


1883 


Catherine Binder. 


1883. 


Mary Dillhoff. 


1883. 


Catherine Mayer. 


1883 


Catherine Schaedle. 


1883. 


Mary Kersting. 


1884. 


Josephine Federle. 


1884. 


Teresa Burst. 


1884. 


Josephine Fries. 


1884. 


Elisabeth Micke. 


1884. 


Bernardine Massmann. 


1884 



(2fT) 



PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. 



.Name 


in Religion. 


Family Name. 
Catherine Fideldei. 


Date 
of En- 
trance. 


Sister M. 


Sophroma. 


1884. 


Sister M. 


Charles. 


Paulina Noever. 


1884. 


Sister M. 


Albina. 


Anna Galauschke. 


1884. 


Sister M. 


Assisium. 


Anna Lambers. 


1884. 


Sister M. 


Philothea. 


Anna Tamme. 


1884. 


Sister M. 


Camilla. 


Catherine Cunningham. 


1884. 


Sister M. 


Ephrem. 


Emily Betzen. 


1884. 


Sister M. 


Gonzaga. 


Anna M. Daller. 


1884. 


Sister M. 


Anna. 


Louisa Meier. 


1884. 


Sister M. 


Loretto. 


Anna Jacobs. 


1884. 


Sister M. 


Pia. 


Mary Frumviller. 


188-5. 


Sister M. 


Irene. 


Margaret Ochsner. 


1885. 


Sister M*. 


Ulrica. 


Mary Schellenberger. 


1885. 


Sister M. 


Meinrada. 


Rosa Gamstaetter. 


1885. 


Sister M. 


Celesta. 


Mary Rink. 


1885. 


Sister M. 


Ildephonsa. 


Anna Wolf. 


1885. 


Sister M. 


Ferdinanda. 


Mary Stein. 


1885. 


Sister M. 


Lucentia. 


Rosa Untied. 


1886. 


Sister M. 


Evarista. 


Rosina Herrmann. 


1886. 


Sister M. 


Eduarda. 


Mary A. Kemlage. 


1886. 


Sister M. 


Yalentina. 


Anastasia Reichert. 


1886. 


Sister M. 


Paulina. 


Frances Tamme. 


1886. 


Sister M. 


Margaret. 


Mary Jackson. 


1886. 


Sister M. 


Borromea. 


Cecilia Oefelein. 


1886. 


Sister M. 


Sulpitia. 


Mary Worland. 


1886. 


Sister M. 


Cassilda. 


Ida Moorbrink. 


1886. 


Sister M. 


Benedicta. 


Agnes Oldendick. 


1887. 


Sister M. 


Germana. 


Catherine Meiners. 


1887. 


Sister M. 


Frederica. 


Mary Willenbrink. 


1887. 


Sister M. 


Modesta. 


Margaret Massett. 


1887. 



(228 



PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. 



> 


lamt 


in Religion. 


Family Name. 


Date 

of En- 
trance. 


Sister 


M. 


Rosalia. 


Mary Ihle. 


1887. 


Sister 


M. 


Barbara. 


Crescentia Egetenmeyer. 


1887. 


Sister 


M. 


Alphonsa. 


Barbara Egetenmeyer. 


1887. 


Sister M. 


Servatia. 


Anna Boxberger. 


1887. 


Sister 


M. 


Leandra. 


Agatha Herrmann. 


1887. 


Sister 


M. 


Amalia. 


Anna Schuck. 


1887. 


Sister 


M. 


Eugenia. 


Catherine Schaeffer. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Raymunda. 


Rosa Ochsner. 


1888. 


Sister M. 


Agnella. 


Catherine Merhinke. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Sebastiana. 


Emily Deeg. 


1888. 


Sister M. 


Felicitas. 


Sophia Massmann. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Humilitas. 


Christina Eitel. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Anacleta. 


Dorothea Kuhn. 


1888. 


Sister M. 


Villanova. 


Bernardine Baurichter. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Bernardetta. 


Frances Dingwerth. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Electa. 


Augusta Mahrt. 


1888. 


Sister M. 


Leonilla. 


Mar}^ Wiethorn. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Baptista. 


Pauline Egetenmeyer. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Mathia. 


Catherine Haemmerle. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Alfreda. 


Myrtle Hunt. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Flavia. 


Elisabeth Efhnger. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Ubalda. 


Mary Baronowski. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Aquina. 


Mary Gruesser. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Hieronyma. 


Mary Norrenbrock. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Beatrice. 


Clara M. Koos. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Adela. 


Mary Bundschu. 


1888. 


Sister 


M. 


Adolphina. 


Elisabeth Gumbel. 


1889. 


Sister 


M. 


Casimira. 


Rosa Feld. 


1880. 


Sister 


M. 


Claudia. 


Caroline Pistner. 


1889. 


Sister 


M. 


Capistrana. 


Isabella Zeller. 


1889. 



(229 



PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. 



Name in Religion. 


Family Name. 


Date 
of En- 
trance. 


Sister M. 


Hyacintha. 


Mary K. Uhl. 


1889. 


Sister M. 


Timothea. 


Anna Falk. 


1889. 


Sister M. 


Hermana. 


Frances Zeisler. 


1889. 


Sister M. 


Protasia. 


Catherine Kleehammer. 


1889. 


Sister M. 


Paula. 


Teresa Lander. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Angelica. 


Emma Dingwerth. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Wilfrida. 


Catherine Boxbei*ger. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Seraphica. 


Rosa Holtel. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Augusta. 


Anna Brausch. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Antonia. 


Clara Jeide. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Loyola. 


Anna Schuster. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Leonora. 


Gertrude Baehl. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Clementina. 


Bernardine Ottenn. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Placida. 


Mary Bachmann. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Christophora. 


Magdalen Me s sang. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Hortulana. 


Catherine Staubach. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Agreda. 


Antoinette Koors. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Beata. 


Teresa Schuster. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Nichola. 


Alary Luetkemeier. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Emilia. 


Elisabeth Reiter. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Cherubina. 


Elizabeth Reiss. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Thomas. 


Veronica Bauer. 


1891. 


Sister M. 


Philippa. 


Christina Armbruster. 


1891. 


Sister M. 


Josepha. 


Joanna Huelsmann. 


1891. 


Sister M. 


Aemiliana. 


Catherine Elpers. 


1891. 


Sister M. 


Bona. 


Margaret Gries. 


1891. 


Sister M. 


Rosalinda. 


Catherine Rean. 


1891. 


Sister M. 


Longina. 


Louisa Armbruster. 


1891. 


Sister M. 


Adelgundis. 


Rosa Vossmeier. 


1891. 


Sister M. 


Paschalis. 


Caroline Goesker. 


1891. 



,£*>• 



PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. 



Name in Religion. 



Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 

Sister M. 



Seraphia. 

Simonetta. 
Alana. 

Adelberta. 

Laetitia. 

Jacoba. 

Felicia. 

Serena. 

Ermelinda. 

Bertilla. 

Concordia. 

Adelinda. 

Stephania. 

Philiberta. 

Eusebia. 

Huberta. 

Clara. 

Engelberta. 

Charitas. 

Donata. 

Angela. 

Victoria. 

Magdalen. 

Domitilla. 

Engratia. 

Annette. 

Rosella. 

Irenaea. 

Antonilla. 

Valeria. 



Family Name. 

Elisabeth Martin. 
Anna Denner. 
Catherine Kunkel. 
Sabina Colesar. 
Mary Fetter. 
Joanna Diener. 
Catharine Boehmer. 
Anna Yolz. 
Rosa Riedinger. 
Christina Meiers. 
Sophia E. Grueter. 
M. Magdalen Xurre. 
Louisa Herrmann. 
Clara Schnapp. 
Mary Hartlein. 
Catherine Elpers. 
Ida B. Moorbrink. 
Gertrude Kre}'. 
Catherine Kelsch. 
Anna Schuerbrock. 
Anna Pr<3ppermann. 
Man- Carroll. 
Helen F. Kennedy. 
Catherine Bussmann. 
Augusta Miller. 
Mary Witte. 
Teresa Simon. 
Elisabeth Miller. 
Catharine Hof. 
Mary Beiting. 



Date 
of En- 
trance. 

1891. 
1891. 
1891. 
1891. 

1891. 
1892. 

1892. 

1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1892. 
1893. 
1893. 
1893. 
1893. 
1893. 



(231; 



PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. 



Name in Religion. 


Family Name. 

Caroline Rensing. 


Date 
of En- 
trance. 


Sister 


M. 


Antonina. 


1893. 


Sister 


M. 


Fiorina. 


Adelheid Kastner. 


1893. 


Sister 


M. 


Stanislas 


Agatha Boegemann. 


1893. 


Sister 


M. 


Bede. 


Rosinct Vogelgesang. 


1893. 


Sister 


M. 


Alma. 


Rosa Huettner. 


1893. 


Sister 


M. 


Irmina. 


Mary Koch. 


1893. 


Sister 


M. 


Joanilla. 


Elisabeth Spinner. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Arcadia. 


Catherine Meier. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Lucilla. 


Mary Schumacher. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Adolpha. 


Anna Essig. 


1894 


Sister 


M. 


Leocritia. 


Rosa Weckesser. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


M. Alacoque. 


Marcia Yolz. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Bertina. 


Mary Mentink. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Liliosa. 


Clara Caspari. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Siegfrida. 


Mary Seeger. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Egidia. 


Margaret Schmitt. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Theofrida. 


Mary Brokamp. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Corbinia. 


Catherine Bachmann. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Itta. 


Emma Kraft. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Agnetta. 


Edith Taylen. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Euphrosina. 


Mary Schrader. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Philomena. 


Margaret Jochem. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Reparata. 


Flora Schueth. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Erasma. 


Honorina Trainor. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Lucia. 


Magdalen Endres. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Devota. 


Caroline Menzer. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Chantal. 


Rosa Haemmerle. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Nicoletta. 


Catherine Haimerl. 


1894. 


Sister 


M. 


Celerina. 


Catherine Bachmeier. 


1895. 


Sister 


M. 


Stella. 


Mary Berg. 


1895. 



(232 



PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. 

Date 

Name in Religion. Family Name. of En- 
trance. 

Sister M. Leona. Gertrude McKernan. 1895. 

Sister M. Sylvia. Teresa Jaegle. 1895. 

Sister M. Bartholomew. Catherine Witzgall. 1895. 

Sister M. Richardis. Anna Schroeder. 1895. 

Sister M. Justina. Ottilia Wetter. 1895. 

Sister M. Vita. Teresa Moore. 189-5. 

Sister M. Desideria. Catherine Borgerding. 1895. 

Sister M. Damiana. Mary Rant. 1895. 

Sister M. Mericia. Mary Imhof. 1895. 

Sister M. Cosmas. Matilda Stein. 1895. 

Sister M. Benitia. Anna Schoettelkoette. 1895. 

Sister M. Thaddaea. Anna Fnssner. 1895. 

Sister M. Maurilia. Hermina Grueter. 1895. 

Sister M. Vitalis. Eleonora Dellekamp. 1896. 

Sister M. Edeltrudis. Margaret Endres. 1896. 

Sister M. Romana. Mary Meyer. 1896. 

Sister M. Silveria. Adelheid Foken. 1896. 

Sister M. Leonida. Emma Borchelt. 1896. 

Sister M. Narcissa. Agnes Grimme. 1896. 

Sister M. Gervasia. Magdalen Gebhardt. 1896. 

Sister M. Flora. Louisa Hanger. 1896. 

Sister M. Hyppolita. Elisabeth Boehm. 1896. 

Sister M. Teresa. Catherine Allstaetter. 1896. 

Sister M. Joseph. Anna Endres. 1896. 

Sister M. Adriana. Elisabeth Kempernolte. 1896. 

Sister M. Maura. Teresa Jochem. 1896. 

Sister M. Emma. Victoria Kragl. 1896. 

Sister M. Avellina. Apollonia Grassmann. 1896. 

Sister M. Ernesta. Apollonia Schmitt. 1896. 

Sister iVi. Apollinaris. Catherine Naber. 1896. 



(238) 



PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. 



Name 


in Religion. 


Family Name. 

Catherine Berthels. 


Date 
of En- 
trance. 


Sister M. 


Verona. 


1896. 


Sister M. 


Juvenalis. 


Ida Langenbahn. 


1896. 


Sister M. 


Leonarda. 


Josephine Bolsey. 


1896. 


Sister M. 


Heliodora. 


Josephine Mollein. 


1896. 


Sister M. 


Auxilia. 


Emily Kneiling. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Hilda. 


Anna Kratzel. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Sigismunda. 


Elisabeth Steinacher. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Joachim. 


Anna Schattner. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Prudentia. 


Rosa Ripperger. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Patricia. 


Rosa Clemens. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Juliana. 


Barbara Binder. 


1890. 


Sister M. 


Borgia. 


Carolina Schneider. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Cordula. 


Angelina Pahls. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Viola. 


Mary Smith. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Carmel. 


Anna Brockmann. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Charlotte. 


Elisabeth Minning. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Honora. 


Catherine Riesmeier. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Clementia. 


Elisabeth Stephan. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Roberta. 


Catherine Xunner. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Editha. 


Cecilia Wetter. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Bertrand. 


Mary Joyce. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Sylvester. 


Thecla Schuetz. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Theobalda. 


Matilda Hemberger. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Elzearia. 


Magdalen Hausmann. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Ottilia. 


Anna Hoffmeier. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Laura. 


Helen Geis. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Arimathea. 


Clara O'Haver. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Rita. 


Lucy Henry. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Mercedes. 


Josephine Bergfeld. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Feliciana. 


Mar}- Poeling. 


1897. 



(234) 



PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. 



Name 


in Religion. 


Family Name. 


Date 

of En- 
trance. 


Sister M. 


Georgiana. 


Frances Schoettelkoette. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Corona. 


Mary Telintelo. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Hildeberta. 


Frances Meyer. 


1897. 


Sister M. 


Ancilla. 


Christina Laehr. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Seraphina. 


Cecilia Crush. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Prima. 


Mary Fredelage. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Elzena. 


Elizetta Wesseler. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Cajetana. 


Barbara Beil. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Aniceta. 


Elisabeth Quebbemann. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Carola. 


Magdalen Hofrmeier. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Expedita. 


Joanna Schuckmann. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Lamberta. 


Elisabeth Geglein. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Ludovica. 


Louisa Wintzinger. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Leontina. 


Josephine Spaeth. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Gregoria. 


Helen Foken. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Edwina. 


Philomena Vossmeyer. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Carina. 


Eleonora Moorbrink. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Radegnndis. 


Rosa Wesseler. 


1898. 


Sister M. 


Latirentina. 


Bernardine Menkhaus. 


1898. 



(285) 



PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY. 



II. NOVICES. 



Xame 


in Religion. 


Family Name. 


Date 
of En- 
trance. 


Sister M. 


Cortona. 


Catherine Greve. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Cyrilla. 


Mary Marischen. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Kostka. 


Mary Mauer. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Maurice. 


Ida Ripperger. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Mansueta. 


Clara Schuli. 


1899. 


Sister M, 


Paschalina. 


Philomena Helmich. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Luke. 


Philomena Meier. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Emmanuela. 


Catharine Koehler. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Macrina. 


Clara Nichter. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Siena. 


Anna Gastenveld. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Olympia. 


Mary Hoefling. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Innocentia. 


Mary Koob. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Hugolina. 


Anna Knueven. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Reinildis. 


Christina Rom. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Leopolda. 


Regina Schnelten. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Hildegundis. 


Mary Badina. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Calasanctia. 


Theresa Ebner. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Benigna. 


Philomena Biltz. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Eligia. 


Mary Gedeon. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Benvenuta. 


Anna Stolz. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Celina. 


Teresa Elpers. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Virginia. 


Catherine Nicklas. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Carmelita. 


Catherine Cauly. 


1899. 


Sister M 


Agrippina. 


Dorothea Peters. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


De Paul. 


Teresa Duepner. 


1899. 


Sister M 


Alwina. 


Emily Verdun. 


1899. 


Sister M 


Ursulina. 


Catherine Hudson. 


1899. 



PRESENT MEMBERS OK THE COMMUNITY. 



Name 


in Religion. 


Family Xame. 


Date 

of En- 
trance. 


Sister M. 


Michaela. 


Mary Moews. 


IS! P.). 


Sister M. 


Natalia. 


Adelheid Blank. 


1S!I!». 


Sister M. 


Turibia. 


Rosa Blank. 


1899. 


Sister M. 


Cupertina. 


Hermina Grundler. 


181)!). 


Sister M. 


Laurina. 


Louisa Frey. 


1900. 


Sister M. 


Heriberta. 


Anna Theders. 


1900. 


Sister M. 


Cedonia. 


Rosa Schiele. 


1900. 


Sister M. 


Rudolpha. 


Magdalen Nicklas. 


1900. 


Sister M. 


Verena. 


Mary Schuck. 


1900. 


Sister M. 


Elvira. 


Wilhelmina Koehler. 


1900. 


Sister M. 


Basilissa. 


Elisabeth Herbig. 


1900. 


Sister M. 


Liberata. 


Mary Riehlmann. 


1900. 


Sister M. 


Aurea. 


Johanna Brosnan. 


1900. 


Sister M. 


Arnolda. 


Clara Kalt. 


1900. 


Sister M. 


Amabilis. 


Theresa Ferkenhoff. 


1900. 


Sister M. 


Ivo. 


Sarah Bayley. 


1901. 


Sister M. 


Didacus. 


Irene Lewton. 


1901. 


Sister M. 


Clarina. 


Mary Bissmeyer. 


1901. 


Sister M. 


Christiana. 


Philomena Nichter. 


1901. 


Sister M. 


Marcella. 


Louisa Emhoff. 


1901. 


Sister M. 


Menodora. 


Catharina Stolz. 


1901. 


Sister M. 


Ambrosina. 


Catherine Verst. 


1901. 


Sister M. 


Gilberta. 


Elisabeth Burdick. 


1901. 


Sister M. 


Daniela. 


Elisabeth Schuck. 


1901. 


Sister M. 


Accursia. 


Hedwig Kinne. 


1901. 


Sister M. 


Elzearia. 


Philomena Fleddermann. 


1901. 


Sister M. 


Generosa. 


Carolina Rom. 


1901. 


Sister M. 


Otto. 


Elisabeth Weiler. 


1901. 


Sister M. 


Mildreda. 


Matilda Sitzmann. 


1901. 



22 



(287) 



III. POSTULANTS. 



/?■>/- 



Caroline Frey. 
Lucia Schuckmann. 
Agnes Iffrig. 
Paulina Boersig. 
Katharina Poeling. 
Carolina Nunner. 
Anna Schuster. 
Pauline Ghibline. 
Rosa Merkel. 



Carrie Merkel. 
Mary Todd. 
Irene Wood. 
Ida Miller. 
Theresa Klein. 
Anna Hoelscher 
Mary Olski. 
Theresa Niklas. 
Mary Frenzer. 



Justina Weiermann. 



JlPPENDIX. 

PROSPECTUS. 



PROSPECTUS 

OF THE 

ACADEMY OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 
OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, 

OLDENBURG, INDIANA. 



fHE Academy of the Immaculate Conception, 
chartered by an Act of the General Assembly 
of the State of Indiana, April 8, 1885, under the 
entire control of the Sisters of St. Francis, is situated 
in the unique, happy little town of Oldenburg, which 
itself is peacefully nestled in a beautiful and salu- 
brious valley, near the southwestern border of 
Franklin County. An excellent turnpike, of four 
miles, connects Oldenburg with Batesville, the 
nearest railroad station, on the Cincinnati, Chicago 
and St. Louis Division of the Big Four Route. The 
turnpike affords ample commodities for travel and 
traffic, while Bell's Long Distance Telephone in 
the Academy offers immediate communication with 
near and far. 

(241) 



242 Prospectus. 



ACADEMY BUILDINGS. 



Chapel of the Immaculate Conception. 

This Chapel, or rather Convent Church, is pro- 
nounced by our patrons, friends and visitors, to be a 
true gem of art and beauty, both as to its Roman- 
esque style and unique plan. The interior is deco- 
rated by Lamprecht, and contains three marble 
altars, a number of smaller shrines, and alto relievo 
Stations of the Cross. The chief ornament of the 
steeple's front is a most beautiful statue of the Im- 
maculate Conception, illumined on the eves of 
special feasts by two arc-lights, which convert the 
gloom and darkness of nightfall into almost noon- 
day splendor, and visitors coming into the village 
on these occasions, greet the scene with marvel and 
deligfht. 



& 



Main Academy Building. 

This imposing building is strictly fire-proof, four 
stories and basement in height, and constructed of 
brick, with Bedford stone trimmings. It is most 
elegantly fitted out for educational purposes, — in- 
deed, nothing conducive to a solid and refined educa- 
tion, to the health, comfort and happiness of the 
pupils has been overlooked. This building is divided 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 243 

into two principal parts, under the special patronage 
of St. Teresa and St. Catherine, respectively. 

St. Teresa's Department, located on the north 
side and extending east and west, contains the 
beautiful Oratory of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, 
the Seniors' recreation parlor, the main study-hall, 
the dispensary, the main dining-hall, and the 
Seniors' dormitory with its most elaborately 
equipped lavatory. 

St. Catherine's Department, extending 
north and south, consist of the elegant library with 
its choice volumes and other objects of literary in- 
terests, the museum, a suite of private rooms, the 
Directress' Office, two suites of class rooms, a gen- 
eral reference room, the Juniors' and Minims' dor- 
mitories and lavatories. 

These apartments are constructed and equipped 
according to the latest and best improvements. All 
the buildings of the Academy are heated by steam 
and lighted by electricity, thereby excluding the use 
of fire entirely. 

St. Cecilia's HalL 

This hall, in nowise secondary to the other 
buildings in view of usefulness and beauty, is three 
stories high. 

The First Floor is occupied by a large audi- 
torium, designed for concerts, musicales, lectures. 



214 Prospectus. 

contests, athletics, etc., and for Commencement 
Exercises. 

The Second Floor forms the well-equipped 
Music Department of twenty-four rooms. Off this 
corridor to the east, opens a dear, sweet haunt, half 
hidden in silent gloom, representing the Grotto of 
Lourdes, that forms a favorite retreat for the stu- 
dents, wherein petty passions are hushed and 
childish cares are smoothed away. 

The Third Floor contains the wardrobe, con- 
veniently arranged and irresistibly pressing the 
pupils to strict observance of order and neatness in 
every detail. 

St. Luke's Art Department. 

St. Luke's Studios are located on the fourth 
floor in the northeast end of the main building, and 
are amply furnished with every appliance and 
facility for the respective art-form studied therein. 
A fine kiln for firing the glazed, decorated articles, 
is at the disposal of the students of ceramic art. 

St. Joseph's Studio. This unique apartment 
under the special patronage of St. Joseph, is in close 
communication with the other studios. Here is 
pursued the fascinating art of wood-carving, and 
many a beautiful piece of artistic design, finds its 
way out of this favorite nook of the happy school- 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 245 

girl, into the sitting-room, library, or parlor of her 
own home. 

Studio of Pyrography. Side by side with the 
studio of wood-carving, is located that of pyrog- 
raphy. This art, as a real art, has a vast field of 
its own, yet, is very effectively blended with wood- 
carving. To pursue these decorative arts in an 
artistic manner, the student is held to free-hand 
sketching of designs. 

Mater Admirabilis Hall. 

This hall is situated in one of the most desirable 
parts of the Academy, and devoted to the art of 
needlework exclusively. 

Plain Sewing is taught and practiced through- 
out the Course. Each pupil is required to keep her 
own wardrobe in perfect repair. Mending and 
darning receive special attention. Competent teach- 
ers direct the regular sewing circles which assemble 
on Thursday afternoon and Saturday, and nothing 
is left undone to enable the classes to obtain a prac- 
tical knowledge of this most useful domestic accom- 
plishment. 

Ornamental Needlework. The acquisition 
of this art is optional. When materials are fur- 
nished in the Institution, they are entered on account 
as Xeedlework Expense. 



246 Prospectus. 



SANITATION. 



Great solicitude is devoted to the sanitary regu- 
lations of the Institution, and noteworthy in par- 
ticular among other hygienic advantages, is the 
well -designed system of ventilation, and the plenti- 
ful, well-regulated admission of sunlight every- 
where. "How complete your system of ventila- 
tion," "How pure the air," "How cheery and agree- 
able the light," are the unanimous exclamations of 
our patrons and visitors, on entering the various 
apartments. 

Grounds. 

The grounds, secluded and spacious, are laid 
out in a tasteful style, and offer every incentive 
to invigorating and healthful exercise. The situa- 
tion is beautiful and picturesque. A salubrious 
climate, shady groves, beautifully sequestered and 
inviting walks, and fragrant bowers for the use and 
recreation of the pupils, all tend to promote health, 
and to create an atmosphere of cheerfulness in this 
abode of tranquil and refined enjoyment, earnest 
study, and meet preparation for the future. Ample 
exercise in the open air is insured by a generous 
supply of desirable out-door sports, such as pleasure 
gardening, swings, lawn croquet, etc. When incle- 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 247 

ment weather prevents out-door exercise, the 
cheery recreation halls are assigned to every variety 
of innocent and appropriate amusement. 

Infirmary. 

The Infirmary is located in a quiet yet pleasant 
part of the Academy, and is well adapted for its 
purpose, in every particular. In case of illness, 
medical assistance is forthwith procured ; every 
alleviation and every comfort that maternal solici- 
tude can suggest is bestowed, and parents and 
guardians are promptly notiffied by the Directress 
of the Academy. 

Physical Culture. 

Physical Culture receives special attention, for 
the aid it affords for healthy development, ease and 
grace. As the sedentary employments of boarding- 
school life would tend to undermine the physical 
vitality, and as grace and elegance are among the 
most striking characteristics of a cultured lady, the 
Sisters make it their unremitting care that the pupils 
engage in healthful exercise. Wednesday and 
Friday evenings of each w T eek are devoted to reg'ular 
calisthenic drills directed by competent teachers. 
The music of pianos, violins and 'cello enliven the 
exercises. These general academic reunions are 
held in the Grand Commencement Hall. Drills with 



248 Prospectus. 

rings, balls, fans, wands, flags, etc., are practiced. 
Marching in plain and fancy step, and through 
beautiful and symmetrical evolutions, with bows, 
salutations, etc., are taught and have a marked 
effect upon the gait and general bearing of pupils. 

Moreover, when the weather is clement, the 
pupils indulge in daily walks, within the beautiful 
grounds, so cozily ensconced by their loved convent 
walls. Wednesday afternoon from 3 to 6 o'clock 
is the time allotted for making pedestrian excur- 
sions to points of interest within a radius of three 
miles of the Academy. The pupils are accompanied 
by four or more of the Faculty, and the hearty 
enjoyment of these days has become proverbial in 
the Institute. 

>$><$? *f7 

EDUCATION. 



Education in the Oldenburg Academy, in short, 
is made to consist in the cultivation, training, devel- 
opment and strengthening of all the physical, intel- 
lectual, moral and religious attributes, belonging" 
to the nature and dignity of woman. To form the 
pupils and to prepare them for the sphere of life 
kind Providence may assign them, is the constant 
aim of the Faculty. 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 'i-J'.t 

Deportment* 

Due attention is given to the physical require- 
ments of the pupils, yet their moral training and 
correct deportment form an object of unremitting 
and paramount importance. Convinced that a truly 
refined and lady-like bearing can be attained only 
by persevering effort, the teachers assiduously culti- 
vate the manners of those entrusted to their charge, 
until their characters form a beautiful counterpar 
of the truly noble. Christian woman — "Virtue, 
Honor, Education/' is our triune standard. 

Correct Language. 

The language of the pupils is carefully guarded. 
and attention invariably called to the correction of 
grammatical inaccuracies, vulgarisms, slang phrases, 
etc. "While pupils are encouraged to think for them- 
selves, and taught to express their ideas with 
modesty, clearness and candor, all asperity, brusque- 
ness, want of gentle and charitable consideration for 
others, studied and caustic witticism, are liable to 
censure. Special instructions in etiquette and polite- 
ness are imparted twice a week. 

Means of Emulation. 

As incentives to laudable emulation, recourse is 
had to 



250 Prospectus. 

i. The Tablet of Honor, a public register of 
pupils who succeed in maintaining Excellence (90 
to 100 per cent.) for a specified time in Deportment, 
Politeness, Industry, Neatness, Christian Doctrine, 
Scientific Studies, Music, Needlework, and Art. 

2. Weekly Reviews, the result of which deter- 
mines each pupil's class-standing. 

3. Reports — a point in the weekly letters to 
parents. 

4. Semi-annual Examinations. 

5. Bulletins. 

6. Grand Prize Drawing (January 6th). 

7. Annual Distribution of Premiums. 

8. Crowns of Honor, and Medals of Excel- 
lence. 

Epistolary Correspondence. 

Epistolary Correspondence receives constant 
attention. Pupils write to parents or guardians 
once a week. No correspondence is permitted with 
acquaintances or friends unless sanctioned by par- 
ents, and indorsed by the teachers. All letters 
received or sent out, are subject to the inspection 
of the Directress. 

Scholastic Year* 

The Scholastic Year is divided into two sessions 
of five months each. The first session begins on the 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 251 

first Monday in September, and terminates on the 
last day of January. The second session commences 
February ist, and ends on the last Thursday in June. 
Pupils may be received at any time during the year, 
but it is earnestly desired that they enter promptly 
to begin the Course of Studies with their respective 
Classes. Want of punctuality in this regard is an 
injury to the pupil in question, and to the class in 
general. Examinations in the presence of the 
Faculty are held at the close of each session. No 
deduction is made for the Christmas holidays, even 
when the absence is extended beyond the limited 
time, which is from ten to twelve days. 

General Classification. 

The pupils are placed according to age in the 
Senior, Junior and minim Department, each with 
play-grounds, sleeping apartments and lavatories of 
its own. 

The Seniors, in all the hours allotted to recrea- 
tion, are under the supervision of an experienced 
Preceptress, and engage in refined and appropriate 
diversions. 

The Juniors form a cheerful group under the 
guidance of a vigilant mistress. The sports and 
games of this department are of great variety, and 
the time allotted to recreation, though liberal, seems 
to them all too short. 



252 Prospectus. 

The Minims have premises and privileges of 
their own. These little Misses occasionally con- 
tribute to the general mirth of their elders, by ex- 
tending invitations to entertainments of their unique 
invention. 

Religious Instructions. 

Catholic pupils are carefully instructed in the 
teachings and practices of our holy Faith. Members 
of all denominations are admitted to the school, and 
religious opinions of non-Catholics conscientiously 
respected. To maintain order, however, all are 
required to assist at the public divine worship on 
Sundays, and all are taught to respect religious prin- 
ciples, and to appreciate moral worth. Catholic 
pupils attend Mass daily. 

* * * 

EDUCATIONAL AIDS. 



The Library. 

This apartment, filled as it is with the richest 
and rarest lore of the past and the present, is, aside 
from the class-room, without a doubt, the earnes + 
student's most favorite haunt both for instruction 
and pleasure. Here she may draw at will from a 
wholesome fount of knowledge, whatever meets her 
needs, whatever may strengthen her on her onward 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 253 

path up Science's rocky steep, and whatever may 
bestow upon her the boon of intellectual pleasure. 

A choice and extensive collection of Latin, 
English, German, French and Spanish standard 
authors is at the disposal of the pupils, as well as 
some of the best periodicals and magazines of the 
day. 

Perusal of books is permitted at appointed times, 
but reference to them may be made whenever occa- 
sion requires. 

The graduating department is furnished with 
an ample reference library, for its own private use. 

The Museum. 

This is another most interesting region for the 
science and nature-loving student. Here are large 
collections in Geology and Mineralogy. Handsome 
cases contain Native Elements, Sulphides, Sulpho- 
Salts, Haloids, Oxides, Carbonates, Silicates, Phos- 
phates, Sulphates, Hydrocarbons. Others hold rare 
specimens of Paleontology, from the various Geo- 
logical Ages and Periods; again, some filled with 
Echinodermata, Corals, Gorgonias and Sponges, 
while others exhibit fine specimens of Mollusca and 
Brachiopoda. 

Collections of botanical and zoological speci- 
mens are also found here, as well as of a variety of 
woods. Numismatics, too, is represented. 

23 



254 Prospectus. 

Science Room and Laboratories. 

These are apartments of great care and solicitude 
of the Faculty, since it must be conceded that theory 
without practice, or application of the principles of 
science, is but scant work at best. 

The "Hybla Bee." 

This is a literary organ, designed to cultivate 
the taste of the students, to encourage criticism, and 
to create a laudable emulation in class-work. It is 
conducted in the style of true Journalism. Essays, 
poems and editorials by the Seniors, constitute the 
main subjects of its columns, while reports of con- 
duct, class-standing, interesting events of the 
Academy, and amusing happenings in the various 
grades, without personal mention, however, of those 
concerned, form happy features of this periodical. 

Friday Review. 

The great aim held constantly in view, is to 
make the pupils thorough and practical in the 
Course selected for them by parents or guardians. 
Experience having proven that frequent review is 
the only means by which the instilled knowledge 
becomes indelibly imprinted upon the young mind, 
Friday of each week has been set apart for this 
special purpose — oral or written Review. This da) 
is known and expected by all as "Review Day." 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 2'h> 

Questions are selected from some of the lessons 
recited during the previous month, or, when deemed 
more expedient, from branches already completed. 
When the Review is written, the pupils are held 
strictly to system and neatness. The one receiving 
the highest average is entitled to the first place in 
class during the following month. A constant in- 
terest is maintained by this friendly emulation, and 
a fund of permanent knowledge is acquired. 

Examinations. 

Aside from the Friday Review, written and oral 
Examinations are required at stated times through- 
out the year, in the various branches of study. 
Pupils absenting themselves from these tests, with- 
out a just cause, deprive themselves of the promo- 
tions, to which otherwise entitled. Bulletins, giving 
detailed statements of pupils' progress and deport- 
ment, are forwarded to parents and guardians at 
certain periods. 

•g. •£. 4? 

SOCIETIES. 



Religious. 

Sodality of the Immaculate Conception. 
The Children of Mary. 

Confraternities of the Holy Face, Holy Rosary, 
the Apostleship of Prayer and Sacred Heart League. 



256 Prospectus. 

Literary. 

St. Catherine's. Believing with Sidney Smith 
that we should accustom the mind to keep the best 
company by introducing it only to the best books, 
the Shakespearean Literary Union is maintained, 
under the patronage of St. Catherine. This is a 
reading and debating circle for the purpose of rais- 
ing the standard of literary taste. Rev. F. X. 
O'Connor's "Reading and the Mind/' and Chateau- 
briand's "Genius of Christianity," are some of the 
hand-books used by the Association. 

St. Teresa's. Another Circle is formed of the 
Preparatory Classes, with St. Teresa as patroness. 
Here reading is biographical and historical, mainly. 
The earnest endeavor of the Preceptresses is to 
awaken an admiration for the good and great in 
Literature and Art. 

St. Angela's. A third Circle under the special 
patronage of St. Angela is formed of the Minims. 
who by no means wish to be outdone by their elders., 
and hence elect their own officers and have their own 
laws and constitutions, all, of course, being enacted 
under the supervision of the respective Preceptress. 

Each of these Circles has a corresponding Music 
Society, which blends harmoniously with the liter- 
ary. The members of these Societies furnish the 
music at the various gatherings. Three Saturday 
evenings of each month, the first, second and third, 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 257 

are assigned respectively, to the Seniors. Prepara- 
tories and Minims. Selections from literary class- 
work, as well as from exercises in elocution, and 

from the music student's repertoire, none of which 
require a special preparation for the occasion, con- 
stitute the main essence of the meetings of these 
Societies. 

These weekly re-unions, besides prompting and 
exercising self-control, graceful and elegant bearing 
in public, also tend to foster a polite and cultured 
sociability in the pupils. 

These private literary entertainments and 
musical recitals tend, moreover, to enliven the 
monotony of routine, without drawing the pupils' 
attention from the more essential duties of school- 
life. 

Xo elaborate costumes are required for these 
entertainments, but it is requested that each pupil 
be provided with an appropriate evening dress — 
white preferred. 

4p •$* 4? 

DISCIPLINE. 



The Discipline is mild, yet exercised with such 
vigilance and firmness as to secure good order. The 
Sisters manifest a truly maternal solicitude for their 
young charges. The pupil's sense of honor is 



^58 Prospectus. 

appealed to from the very entrance into the Institu- 
tion. This sense of honor must, however, make 
itself prominent by implicit obedience, without 
which absolutely necessary virtue, the student's 
progress cannot be commensurate. Only by disci- 
pline can be commanded that quiet and order so 
imperative to earnest school-work, and the following 
are some of the regulations found to be expedient 
to attain the desired end. 

i. All pupils are expected to attend religious 
exercises with punctuality and decorum. 

2. When summoned by the bell to an exercise, 
each one is to repair in silence to the assigned place 
of duty. 

3. Silence, the guardian of order and mother 
of thought, is prescribed, except in the time of recre- 
ation, and even then no talking is permitted in the 
corridors and on the stairways. 

4. Without permission of the presiding Sister, 
no pupil is excused from recreation. 

5. Pupils, when not otherwise engaged, are 
expected to be in the general Study-hall. 

6. Weekly letters are written to parents or 
guardians. No other correspondence, without per- 
mission. 

7. Pocket money must be deposited into the 
hands of the Treasurer. The pupils keep an exact 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 259 

account of all the receipts and expenses, and, of 
course, no one is permitted to overdraw her deposit. 

8. Pupils are not allowed to repair to the 
robery or infirmary without having obtained per- 
mission. 

9. Borrowing or lending articles of clothing, 
etc., is strictly forbidden. 

10. Jewelry is not to be worn; earrings, a pin 
and ring, are excepted. 

11. Want of due respect to superiors or 
courtesy to fellow-pupils will not be tolerated. 

12. Private friendships are discountenanced. 
No two pupils must be exclusively together. 

13. Permission to receive, entertain visitors, or 
leave the grounds with their relatives, is to be ob- 
tained from the Directress. 

14. Without special permission, no pupil is 
excused from class or study to entertain company. 

15. Visitors are received on Thursday in the 
Academy parlor. 

16. Books, newspapers. magazines, etc., 
brought by pupils or sent to them must be submitted 
to the inspection of the Directress. 

17. Letters sent or received are subject to in- 
spection. Pupils are positively forbidden to deliver 
or receive letters secretlv. 



260 Prospectus. 

18. Pupils are responsible for library books in 
their possession. 

19. Neatness of apparel, care of books, furni- 
ture, etc., is strictly enjoined. Desks, drawers and 
shelves are subject to frequent examination. 

20. Amiable, polite, gentle, engaging manners 
must be cultivated. 

•b 4» 4? 

GENERAL REGULATIONS. 



Visits. No visits home, Christmas vacation 
excepted, will be permitted at any period of the 
scholastic year. Parents are asked to aid in the 
observance of discipline, and not request exceptions 
without absolute necessity. 

Thursday is the regular visiting day. Relatives 
and friends of the pupils are particularly requested 
to respect this regulation. Much confusion and 
interruption, which materially interfere with the 
progress of the entire School, will thus be obviated. 
Callers who desire to visit the various departments 
of the Institution are permitted to do so, under the 
escort of one of the Sisters. 

References. Strangers desiring to enter 
pupils, are requested to furnish letters of recom- 
mendation from reliable sources as to their social 
and business standing. 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 261 

Payments to be made semi-annually in advance. 
No deduction is made for the unexpired portion of 
a term during which a pupil may leave, except in 
case of dismissal or protracted illness. 

Expenses. Necessary purchases will be made 
for clothing, dressmaking, etc., provided a sufficient 
sum be deposited for the purpose. It is suggested 
that each pupil be supplied with five dollars pocket 
money for incidentals. 

Express Charges. All parcels sent to pupils 
should be prepaid. Parents and guardians should 
refrain, except at Christmas and Easter, and other 
very special occasions, from sending boxes and 
sweet-meats. These delicacies interfere with the 
relish for good, nutritious food. Fresh fruit, how- 
ever, is not included in this prohibition. As the 
health of the pupil is considered a matter of vital im- 
portance, they are furnished with savory, substantial 
and plentiful meals, conducive to strength and phys- 
ical development. 

Valuables. The Academy Faculty will not be 
responsible for valuables, watches, bracelets, dia- 
mond pins or rings, retained by the pupils. It is 
deemed prudent to leave such ornaments at home. 

Traveling Fare. Whenever parents or guardi- 
ans wish to withdraw a pupil, timely notice should 
be sent to the Directress, the traveling fare for- 
warded, and all accounts settled. 



262 Prospectus. 



COURSES OF STUDY, 



The course of study is thorough, comprehensive 
and practical, embracing all the branches of a solid 
and accomplished education. Every pupil who en- 
ters the academy is expected to take one of the Reg- 
ular Courses, Academic, Business, Music or Art, 
unless for cogent reasons the Partial Course, con- 
sisting of special studies, be desired. 

The classes are so arranged, that pupils advanced 
in some but deficient in other branches, may perfect 
themselves in whatever they are defective, without 
losing their rank in the grade to which their general 
scholarship entitles them. 

Elementary Course. 

This Course is adapted for younger pupils, and 
for such not sufficiently advanced to enter the 
Preparatory. 

i. — Catechism (orally), Spelling, Reading, 
Writing, Oral Arithmetic, and Object Lessons. 

2. — Catechism, Bible Stories, Elementary Arith- 
metic, Language Lessons, Spelling, Elements of 
Literature and Lnited States History, Primary 
Geography, Home and Map Drawing, Composition. 

3. — Catechism, Bible History, Practical Arith- 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 263 

metic. Mental Arithmetic, Geography., United 
States History. General Literature.. Grammar. 
Spelling and Composition. 

4. — Errors of speech are carefully corrected and 
the use of good English is exacted throughout all 
recitation, written work, and conversation. 

Drills in Elocution. Breathing and Vocal Culture 
are begun. 

Preparatory. 

1. — Catechism. Bible History. Practical and 
Mental Arithmetic. Analytical Grammar. Litera- 
ture, Dictation and Composition.. United States 
History, Geography. Natural History and Hygiene. 

2. — Catechism, Bible History, Mental and Prac- 
tical Arithmetic. Advanced Grammar. Composition 
and Dictation, Literature. United States History. 
Geography, Science of Familiar Things and Physi- 
ology. 

3. — Catechism, Church History, Algebra, Arith- 
metic, Elements of Rhetoric and Composition, Lit- 
erature, General History. Physiography, Civil Gov- 
ernment, Zoology, Physiology, Botany, Elements 
of Book-keeping. 

Orthography, Epistolary Correspondence and 
Reading receive special attention throughout the 
whole Course. 



264 Prospectus. 



Academic Course. 



i. — Christian Doctrine, Church History, Alge- 
bra, Higher Arithmetic, Rhetoric, Composition, Lit- 
erature, Physiography, Civil Government., Modern 
History, Botany, Zoology. 

2. — Perry's Instructions, Church History, Alge- 
bra, Higher Arithmetic, Elements of Geometry, 
Rhetoric, Composition in Prose and Poetry, Ancient 
History, Botany and Chemistry. 

3. — Perry's Instructions, Church History, 
Geometry. Versification, Composition in Prose and 
Poetry, Criticism, Logic, Geology, Physics, Special 
History. Astronomy. 

4. — Christian Religion and Church History, 
Logic, Metaphysics, Ethics, Composition, Current 
History, and Higher Mathematics, Review of 
Studies Completed. 

Standard works of authors are carefully studied 
throughout the Course and pupils are required to 
prepare notes and criticisms on these. 

Book Reviews and practice in Journalism are 
resorted to with most desirable results. 

Botanical Analysis, Astronomical Observations 
with telescope, form pleasant and profitable supple- 
ments to the text of respective branches. 

Classical Biography, Mythology and Antiquities 
are studied in connection with Ancient Historv, and 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception-. 265 

the Ancient Atlas is faithfully referred to in giving 
historical locations. 

Christian Doctrine. 

Catechism. Bible and Church History are taught 
to Catholics in every grade. Biography of the 
Saints. Xotes taken from Sermons, and from the 
morning Meditation, form supplementary work. 

Post-Graduate. 

This Course can be assumed only by those 
students, who have been graduated, and who mean 
to prove themselves earnest workers, by one, two or 
three years' study of the desired branches, according 
to a plan sanctioned by the Faculty. Tests and ex- 
aminations are required, as in other Courses. 

Partial Course. 

Pupils who desire to take up a Special Course 
must consult the Prefect of Studies as to its arrange- 
ment. It is furthermore requisite that they possess 
the necessary qualifications to pursue successfully 
the special studies that may be chosen. 

Business Course. 

This Course is thorough and complete, including 
Penmanship, Book-keeping. Commercial Law, Busi- 
ness Arithmetic, Business Practice, Stenography 
and Typewriting. 



266 Prospectus. 

Penmanship. 

This important branch of education receives due 
attention. It is taught in all grades, twenty minutes 
daily being devoted to the regular writing class. 
All supplementary work is strictly required to be 
done in a neat and systematic style. 

Elocution. 

Elocution receives much attention, and is taught 
throughout the Course. Special voice culture and 
the Delsarte system begins when the second Pre- 
paratory Grade is reached. The principal aim in 
teaching this branch is to give the pupils a graceful 
carriage, an easy manner of address, and to con- 
tribute to the pleasures of home life. 

Language. 

German. 

The German Course is thorough and practical, 
and although elective, it is the earnest desire of the 
Faculty that it be taken by all the students. 

i. — Ann's Method, Benziger's First and Second 
Readers, Formation of Simple Sentences, Spelling, 
Penmanship. 

2. — Aim's Second Part, Rudiments of Gram- 
mar, Benziger's Third Reader, English and German 
Translation, Dictation, Composition, Penmanship. 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 2H7 

3. — Grammar, Bone's Reader, Themes, Original 
and Imitation Work, German and English Transla- 
tion, Dictation, Study of the German Classics, Pen- 
manships. 

German Conversation in class, at meals or recre- 
ation on certain days. 

French. 

1. — Jonin's Method, English and French; 
Translation, English and French ; Reading, Dicta- 
tion, Memorizing easy phrases, Elements of Gram- 
mar. 

2. — Reading, Grammar, Translation from the 
German and English, Dictation, Fasquelle's Con- 
versation, Letters of Eugenie de Guerin, Madame 
de Segur's Stories, Composition. 

3. — Grammar, Reading and Translation from 
French into German and English, Madame de 
Sevigne's Letters, Fables of La Fontaine, General 
Literature, Dictation, Composition, Conversation. 

Latin. 

1. — Harkness' First Year in Latin, Rudiments 
of Grammar, Historia Sacra, Study of Latin 
Hymns, Translation — Latin, German and English. 

2. — Grammar; Study of Latin Classics, Corne- 
lius Xepos, Ccesar, Virgil, Horace, Cicero ; Extracts 
from the Psalms and Thomas a Kempis, Compo- 
sition. 



26S Prospectus. 

Latin is taught throughout the Senior Grade 
principally to the end that it serves as a key to the 
English Language. 

* * * 

MUSIC DEPARTMENT. 



As every other Course, that of Music receives 
the attention required to make it a success. The 
works of the leading masters, tending chiefly to the 
gradual mental and technical development of the 
pupil, have been judiciously collected and trans- 
formed into a system according to well-digested 
plans of classical European Conservatories. The 
constant aim of the teachers is to combine, as much 
as possible, theory and practice throughout the 
Course. Without discarding the new romantic 
style, the pupils are early prepared for the classical 
school, the basis of music. Thus step by step the 
pupils are lead from the very rudiments to the 
solution of the most difficult problem of art, which 
the great Beethoven styled, "A higher revelation 
than wisdom or philosophy." 

Piano Music. 

Regular Course. 
Grade I. Mathew's Graded Course No. i, 
Mason's Two Finger Exercises, Macdougall's Ex- 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 269 

ercises, Selected Technics from Lichner, Loesch- 
horn, Herz, etc. 

Theory. Rudiments of Music, with Illustra- 
tions ; Time and Key Signatures, Accidentals, 
Terms relating to Movement, Touch and Technic. 

Grade II. Mason's Complete School of Scales, 
Mathew's Studies in Phrasing, Macdougall's Exer- 
cises and Arpeggios, Sonatinas of Clementi, Haydn 
and Mozart, Durvernoy's School of Mechanism. 

Theory. Formation of the Major and Minor 
Scales, Relation of Keys, Phrasing, Analysis, Em- 
bellishments, etc. 

Grade III. Mason's Complete School of Ar- 
peggios and Chords, Methew's Graded Course No. 
3, Studies by Herz, Mertke, Plaidy. 

Theory. Study of Intervals, Chords, Modu- 
lation, Transposition, Schuman, Bendel, Clementi, 
Saint Saens, Weber, Liszt, Chopin, Mendelssohn 
and Grieg. 

Advanced Course. 

Grade IV. Chord and Pedal Studies, Czerny's 
Velocity, Mason's Octavo School, Book 4; Bach's 
Well-Tempered Clavichord, Tausig's Daily Studies, 
Mendelssohn's Songs without Words, Schumann, 
Weber, Schubert, Chopin's Xocturns and Waltzes, 
Raff, Haberbier. 

Grade V. Clementi' s Gracilis ad Parnassum, 
Tausig's Daily Studies, Chopin's Etudes, Mason's 



270 Prospectus. 

Octavo School (Con.), Bach's Well-Tempered 
Clavichord (Con.), Selections from Henselt, 
Brahms, Rubinstein, Saint Saens, Sonatas, Sym- 
phonies by Beethoven, Hadyn. 

Grade VI. Studies by Chopin, Liszt, Rubin- 
stein, Tausig's Daily Studies, Schubert's Sonatas 
and Impromptus, Chopin and Liszt Concertos, 
Bach's Fugues and Oratorios. Transcriptions by 
Liszt and other modern Tone-Poets. 

The pupils of this Grade study, furthermore, 
Harmony, Counterpoint, Form and Artistic Ac 
companiment, the History and Science of Music 
and Musical Literature. 

Vocal. 

Exercises and studies in this as in the Piano 
Department are selected and adapted to the needs of 
each individual, according to the plans of the best 
Conservatories. 

i. — Panseron's ABC, Concone's 50 Exercises, 
Abt's Singing Tutor, Part I : Gilchrist's Sight Sing- 
ing Exercises. 

2. — Marchesi's Elementary Exercises, Panser- 
on's Methods in connection with Lessons in Audi- 
tion, Abt's Singing Tutor Parts IT. and II. 

3. — Concone's 15 Vocalises, Lablache, Panofka's 
a 4 Vocalises, Abt's Singing Tutor Part IV, 50 
Cadenzas Part IV, selected and arranged by Max 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 271 

Maretzek, the Art of Phrasing, Respiration, Accen- 
tuation, and Expression by Bordogni. 

Stringed Instruments. 

Harp, Violin, Guitar, Mandolin, Zither, etc., are 
also taught according to approved methods, which 
have been followed with the best results. Aside of 
the private lessons, the pupils have the advantage of 
orchestral playing, the Academy Orchestra taking 
active part in the principal, annual entertainment. 

Pipe Organ. 

Every advantage is offered in the study of the 
Pipe Organ, both as to theory and practice. An ex- 
cellent instrument, built by the famous Koehnken & 
Grimm Co., for the newly erected magnificent Con- 
vent Church, adjoining the Academy, is at the 
graduate's service. Another of smaller dimensions, 
of the same firm, located in St. Cecilia's Auditorium, 
is used by the general student. 

Choirs. 

The St. Cecilia's Choir is composed of the 
young ladies of the Senior Department, who take 
a laudable pride in singing the praises of God. 
Saturday is regular choir day. On the feast of 
St. Cecilia, patroness of Music, and that of St. 
Catherine, patroness of the Scientific Department 



272 Prospectus. 

High Mass is sung by this choir, and on certain oc- 
casions the best voices are admitted to the Convent 
Church Choir. 

The Guardian Angel Choir is composed of 
the Juniors, who are not less punctual or zealous 
than their elders. Wednesday is their choir day. 

4* 4? 4? 

ART DEPARTMENT. 



Elementary Course. 

Drawing and Shading of surfaces, cubes and 
spheres, and other similar objects, flowers, vases, etc. 

Preparatory Course. 

Drawing and Shading more complicated ob- 
jects, as to their nature and arrangement, such as 
groups of berries, flowers, shells and heads. By 
this exercise, the pupil acquires a ready discernment 
of the proportions of light and shade. 

Advanced Course. 

Perspective Drawing, Advanced Drawing in 
ink, charcoal and crayon from castes, still life and 
nature. Painting in oil, water colors or pastel is 
on the above plan. Instructions when desired are 
given also in the Ceramic Art, Pyrography and 
Wood-carving. 



Academy of the Immaculate Conxeptiox. 273 



WARDROBE. 



Dresses — 

Two school Uniforms for winter. 

Two School Uniforms for summer — navy blue 

skirts and four gray Holland linen shir 

waists with collars and cuffs. 
One Sunday Uniform for winter, plain black. 
One Sunday Uniform for summer, plain black 

skirt and two white, linen lawn ( or goods of 

similar texture) shirt waists. 
Sacque or Cape of black, woolen goods for daily 

use. 
Wrap for Sunday, of heavier material (black). 
Veil. The uniform veil is furnished at the Inst' 

tute. 
Blouse, woolen waist, navy blue, for exercises in 

Physical Culture. Suitable trimming to be 

added at the Academy. 
Aprons, two black and four white. 
Dressixg-gowxs, two. and a shawl of dark color, 

one pair of bed-room slippers. 
Hair Ribbox t , black or dark blue and white. 
Belt, black leather. 
Furthermore, a plentiful supply of undergarments 

and hose, suitable to the season, pocket- 



274 Prospectus. 

handkerchiefs, two or three black or colored 
skirts (not silk), flannel underskirts, night 
gowns. 

Shoes, three pairs, one pair of rubbers, and an 
umbrella. 

Toilet Set, containing combs, brushes, toilet soap, 
tooth powder and tooth mug, six towels. 

Table Service, knife, fork, plate, cup, saucer, gob- 
let, table, tea and dessert spoon, six table- 
napkins. 

Rug, or one and a half yards of carpet. 

Stationery. A good supply of letter paper, en- 
velopes and stamps. 

Regulations for Uniforms. 

Seniors and Juniors. 

Winter — Two School Uniforms : navy blue, med- 
ium shade. 

One Sunday Uniform, plain black material, 
plain white collars and cuffs. 
Summer — Two School Uniforms; navy blue skirt, 
of lighter texture, medium shade, and four 
gray Holland linen shirt waists, with collars 
and cuffs. 

One Sunday Uniform, plain black skirt and two 
white shirt waists. 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 27; 

Minim Department. 

Children Under Twelve Years. 

Winter — One Sunday Uniform ; navy blue, medium 
shade. 
Two School Uniforms, navy blue, medium 
shade. 
Summer — Sunday : White Dresses. 

School : Navy blue (light material) with guimpe 
of gray Holland linen. Trimmings of same 
materials. 

4? 4? «$• 

TERMS PER SESSION. 



Entrance Fee (paid but once) $ 5 oo 

Tuition in English, German, Vocal Music in class, 
Plain and Fancy Needlework, Board, Bedding 

and Washing 6o oo 

Use of Library I oo 

Infirmary Charges I oo 

Stationery, (pens, ink, pencils, chalk) I oo 

Graduation Fee io oo 

Extra Charges Per Session. 

Piano $25 00 

Harp 30 00 

Organ ( Parlor) 20 00 

Pipe Organ 30 00 



276 Prospectus. 

Violin 25 00 

Guitar I5 00 

Mandolin 10 00 

Private Vocal Lessons 20 00 

Extra Practice (one hour daily) 10 00 

Harmony and Thorough Bass 20 00 

Typewriting 10 00 

Stenography 15 00 

French 10 00 

Latin 10 00 

Pyrography 15 00 

Wood-carving 20 00 

Painting in Oil 20 00 

Painting on China and in Water Colors 15 00 

Drawing — Pastel, Crayon 15 00 

Vacation Charges, per Month 15 00 

Text-books rented ; Bookkeeping Blanks. Art Materials, 
supplied as used. Abused Books, Patterns, etc., charged ac- 
cording to damage. Medical service at physician's charges. 

4, 4, •£. 

ACADEMY CALENDAR. 



September, First Tuesday — Opening of School. 
September 8 — General Outing. 
October 4 — Founder's Day. 
October 15 — Feast of St. Teresa. 
November 21 — Feast of Presentation (Minims' 
Day). 



Academy of the Immaculate Conception. 277 

November 22 — Feast of St. Cecilia, Patroness 
of Music. 

November 25 — Feast of St. Catherine, Patron- 
ess of Science. 

Thanksgiving Day. 

December 8 — Patronal Feast. 

December 22 to January 2. inclusive — Christmas 
Holidays. 

Directress' Day. 

February 22 — Washington's Birthday. 

March 19 — St. Joseph's Day. 

April — Easter Monday. 

May 1 — First Holy Communion Day. 

May Party Day on Pentecost Monday. 

Mother Superior's Patronal Feast. 

Last Thursday in June — Commencement Day. 

4, 4, 4. 

COMMENCEMENT DAY. 



The scholastic year closes on the last Thursday 
of June. The final exercises take place on this day. 
A simple, white linen lawn dress, trimmed in the 
same material, is required for each pupil on this oc- 
casion. Low neck or short sleeves are absolutely 
prohibited. 



CONTENTS, 



Page. 
Dedication 3 

Our Founder 5 

Preface 7 

PART FIRST: 1850-1860. 

CHAPTER I. 

Introduction. — Present Status of the Community. — Its 
Object, the Education of Youth. — Annual Return of 
the Sisters to the Mother-House 11 

CHAPTER II. 
Devoted Souls.— "My God and My All !"— The First 

Convent Building.— Toil and Poverty 14 

CHAPTER III. 
The Rev. Francis Joseph Rudolf. Founder of the Com- 
munity and of the Convent. — His Arrival in America 
and First Labors. — Arrival at Oldenburg. — Poor Con- 
dition of the Mission. — The First Parish School. — A 
New Church. — Resolution to Build a Convent 16 

CHAPTER IV. 
Authorization to Found a Convent. — Building It. — Arrival 
of Mother Teresa. — Vesting of the First Members. — 
New Arrivals. — Removal to the Convent and Taking 
Charge of the School 24 



280 Contents. 

CHAPTER V. „ ' 

Page. 
Aspect of the First Convent. — The Parlor. — The First 

Chapel. — The Blessed Sacrament in the Chapel. — The 

Cells. — The Refectory. — The Community Room 30 

CHAPTER VI 

Approbation by the Holy See and Authorization to Re- 
ceive the Profession of Members. — An Academy 
Begun. — Its First Pupils.— Taking Charge of the 
District School. — Nocturnal Choir. — New Buildings. 
— Reception of Orphans 34 

CHAPTER VII. 
A New Chapel. — The First and Second Mission School.— 
Daily Mass in the Chapel. — Retreats. — Other Mission 
Schools 40 

CHAPTER VIII. 
Destruction of the Convent by Fire. — The Blessed Sacra- 
ment Saved. — The Sisters Sheltered. — Father Rudolf's 
and Father Weber's Generosity. — Fortitude of the 
Sisters and their Pupils. — The School Continued.... 46 

CHAPTER IX. 
The New Convent. — A Collecting Tour. — Charitable Gifts 
of Benefactors at Home and Abroad. — Laying of the 
Corner-stone of the New Chapel. — The Feast of the 
Immaculate Conception. — St. Joseph's Convent Bell. 
—A Pipe Organ 52 

CHAPTER X. 
Mother Teresa. — A Sketch of Her Life. — Her Character. 
— Her Solicitude for the Community. — Called to Her 
Reward 59 



Contexts. 281 

PART SECOND: I860— J 870. 
CHAPTER I. 

Page. 
Mother Antonia, Second Superior General. — A Proposed 

Removal Declined. — Purchase and Addition of a 

House in St. Louis 65 

CHAPTER II. 
Extension of the Community's Work. — New Schools. — 
Death of Three Sisters. — A House at St. Vincent's, 
Prescott. Ind 68 

CHAPTER III. 
First Public Commencement of the Academy. — New 
School at Covington, Kentucky. — Father Rudolf's 
Silver Jubilee. — First Academy Building. — Property 
in St. Louis Enlarged 73 

CHAPTER IV. 
New Trials. — Acceptance of New Schools. — Increase of 
Pupils at St. Mary's School, Indianapolis. — Addition 
of an Academic Department 77 

CHAPTER V. 
Extension of the Academy Building. — St. Ann's Oratory. 
— More Schools Accepted. — A House Built in In- 
dianapolis 80 

CHAPTER VI. 
Father Rudolf's Death 83 

CHAPTER VII. 
Annual Retreat. — St. Aloysius School, Covington, Ken- 
tucky. — St. John's School, in the Same City. — Rev. 
Nicholas Wachter, O. F. M.. Father Rudolf's 
Successor 87 



282 Contents. 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Page. 
The Chapel. — Schools at Lawrenceburg and Scottsville, 

Indiana. — A Sisters' Dwelling in Brookville, Indiana. 

— A Lot Bought in Richmond, Indiana 91 

CHAPTER IX. 
Schools in West Covington, Kentucky, and New Albany. 
Indiana. — Ground Added to the Convent Property. — 
A House in New Albany 94 

CHAPTER X. 
A School at Evansville, Indiana. — The Chapel Frescoed. 
— New Side Altars and Statues. — Retreat. — Votive 
Gift of the Community 96 

PART THIRD: J870-J880. 

CHAPTER I. 
Annual Retreat. — Schools at St. Joseph's Hill, Enochs- 
burg and Millhousen. Indiana. — Completion of the 
House at New Albany 101 

CHAPTER II. 
Preparations for Building in Evansville, Indiana. — Re- 
ligious Solemnities During Vacation. — A New Altar 
and Oil Painting in the Chapel. — School at St. 
Peter's, Missouri 102 

CHAPTER III. 
Mother Antonia's Last Illness, Death and Burial 104 

CHAPTER IV 

Venerable Mother Michaela. Third Superior General. — 
The Community at the Beginning of Her Term. — 
New Missions. — A Cemetery no 



Contents. 283 

CHAPTER V. 

Page. 

New Addition to the Academy. — Profession. — A New 

School at Shelbyville, Indiana 112 

CHAPTER VI. 
A Danger Averted. — Recall of the Sisters from the Cov- 
ington Schools, One Excepted. — Consecration to the 
Sacred Heart. — New Heating Apparatus in the 
Chapel. — Blessing of the New Academy 115 

CHAPTER VII. 
Ground near St. Mary's Church, Indianapolis, Bought. — 
Commencement Exercises in the Academy. — Schools 
Accepted at St. Wendel and Greensburg. Indiana, 
and at St. Bernard, Ohio 118 

CHAPTER VIII. 
Annual Examination and Commencement. — Death of 
Bishop Maurice de St. Palais.— Scarcity of Teachers 
in the Community 122 

CHAPTER IX. 
Memorial Services for His Holiness, Pope Pius IX. — 
Continued Scarcity of Teachers. — A Sisters' Dwelling- 
Built in Richmond, Indiana 126 

CHAPTER X. 
The Right Rev. Francis S. Chatard, Bishop of Vincennes, 

Visits the Community 127 

PART FOURTH: 1880-1890. 

CHAPTER I. 

Progress of the Community. — A New Building. — Conse- 
cration of the New Cemetery. — Acceptance of a 
School 133 

25 



I 



284 Contents. 

CHAPTER II. 

Page. 
St. Bridget's School, Indianapolis. — Solemnities in the 

Chapel. — Acceptance of Other Schools 136 

CHAPTER III. 
An Addition to the Buildings Blessed. — Separate Sunday 
Services for the Sisters. — Jubilee Mission in Olden- 
burg. — Death of Rev. Peter Schenkel. — New Schools. 138 

CHAPTER IV. 
A Disastrous Flood at Lawrenceburg, Indiana 141 

CHAPTER V. 
An Addition to the Building of Holy Trinity's School, 
St. Louis. — A School in Bridgetown, Missouri. — Ill- 
ness and Death of Venerable Mother Michaela 142 

CHAPTER VI. 
Election of a New Superior General. — Statistics of the 
Community. — New Schools. — Incorporation of the 
Community 145 

CHAPTER VII. 

Summer Normal. — Examination. — Grading of Teachers. 
— Annual Retreat, Vesting and Profession. — New 
Schools. — Kindergarten 147 

CHAPTER VIII. 
Golden Jubilee of the Parish at Oldenburg. — The Right 
Rev. Bishop's Return from Rome. — His Visit to 
to Oldenburg. — New Schools 149 

CHAPTER IX. 
Quiet Attention to Duty. — Rome Approves the Constitu- 
tions of the Community. — Plans for a New Convent 
Church 151 



Contents. 285 

CHAPTER X. 

Page. 
A Temporary Chapel. — Laying of the Corner-stone of the 

New Convent Church. — New Schools 153 

PART FIFTH: 1890—1900. 

CHAPTER I. 
The Blessed Sacrament Transferred "to the New Church. 
— Celebration of the First Mass There. — Baptism 
of Two Converts. — Modern Improvements. — New 
Schools 159 

CHAPTER II. 
Annual Commencement. — Consecration of the New 
Church. — The High Altar. — Shrines. — A New School 
and Kindergarten 162 

CHAPTER III. 
New Schools. — Aggregation of the Community to the 
Archconfraternity of the Holy Face. — Confirmation 
of the Community's Constitution by the Holy See. .. 166 

CHAPTER IV. 
New Buildings. — The Community Receives the Holy 
Father's Special Blessing. — Extraordinary Privileges 
Granted to the Community. — Consecration of the 
New Side Altars 169 

CHAPTER V. 
Vacation and Retreat. — Electricity as Illuminating Agent. 
— St. Henry's School, at St. Louis, Missouri, Ac- 
cepted. — Its Destruction by a Tornado 17 1 

CHAPTER VI. 
Calm Prosperity. — Progress of the Academy. — Death of 

Several Sisters 175 



286 Contents. 

CHAPTER VII. 

.Page. 
A Newly Ordained Priest's First Mass in the Convent 
Church. — Silver Jubilee of a Number of Sisters. — 
The Community is Received, with Extraordinary 
Privileges, into the Archconfraternity of the Holy 
Rosary. — Villa Santa Clara 177 

CHAPTER VIII. 

A New Convent and Academy Building. — The Church 
Frescoed. — A New Cemetery. — Laying of the Corner- 
stones. — Awarding of Contracts 179 

CHAPTER IX. 

A New Christinas Crib. — Final Approbation of the Com- 
munity's Constitutions. — Laying of the Corner-stone. 
— New Schools. — Solemn Midnight Mass 182 

CHAPTER X. 

Commencement Exercises. — Elections. — Dedication of 
the New Academy Oratory. — First Communion and 
Confirmation. — Vesting and Profession 188 

Conclusion 201 

PART SIXTH : STATISTICS. 

Mission Schools in Charge of the Sisters of the Olden- 
burg Community 205 

List of Deceased Sisters 215 

Present Members of the Community 222 

APPENDIX: PROSPECTUS. 

Prospectus of the x\cademy of the Immaculate Conception 

of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Oldenburg, Indiana .... 241 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS, 



N. B. — The names are those of the donors of the plates of the pict 



ures. 



Page 
Following 

New Convent Building, Front View 2 

(Mrs. L. Korte Moormann.) 
New Convent Church 2 

(Misses M. and L. Dillhoff.) 

Rev. Francis Joseph Rudolf 6 

North View of Convent Building 24 

(Miss Frances Stomps.) 
Chapel Convent — Orphanage — Academy — Mortuary 

Chapel 34 

(Mrs. A. Hackmann, nee Flodder.) 

Novitiate Study Hall 40 

(Miss Mary Klinkhammer.) 

Holy Trinity School, St. Louis, Mo 64 

(Miss Cecilia Walter.) 

St. Cecilia's Hall 72 

St. Mary's Academy, Indianapolis, Ind 80 

(Miss M. Miner.) 
Art Room of St. Mary's Academy, Indianapolis, Ind.... 80 

St. Lawrence's School, Lawrenceburg, Ind 90 

Sisters' Residence, Brookville, Ind. ; St. Vincent's 
School, Prescott, Ind. ; St. Anthony's School, 

Evansville, Ind 9 2 

St. Mary's Academy, New Albany, Ind 94 

(Miss E. Reising.) 
St. Mary's School, Evansville, Ind 96 

(Misses T. and K. Marshall.) 

(287) 



288 List of Illustrations. 

Page 
Following 

Shrine of the Sorrowful Mother 102 

(Mrs. C. Gerdes, nee Boffendick.) 

Shrine of St. Ann . . .' 102 

(Mrs. J. Nurre, nee Niehouse.) 

Rt. Rev. Maurice de St. Palais 116 

Students' Private Room 122 

Graduates' Study 122 

(Misses N. and G. Averdick.) 

Pope Pius IX 126 

Sisters' Residence, Richmond, Ind 126 

(Miss A. Moormann.) 

Rt. Rev. Francis S. Chatard 128 

Pope Leo XIII 128 

St. Bridget's Academy, Indianapolis, Ind 136 

(First Three Graduates — Miss J. McGee, Miss M. 
McCarthy and Miss A. Green.) 
Interior of the Old Chapel 152 

(Misses M. and K. Hord.) 
Church of the Immaculate Conception, Oldenburg, Ind., 158 
Interior of the New Church 160 

(Miss Leona Brockmann.) 
Main Altar 162 

(Mrs. C. Droppelmann, nee Maag.) 
Main Convent Stairway .' 166 

(Misses J. and R. Olberding.) 
St. Anthony's School, Streator, 111. 168 

(Miss E. Schuetz.) 
Infirmary . 168 

(Miss Rosa Moormann.) 
St. Henry's School After the Cyclone of 1896, St. 

Louis, Mo 172 

Front View of the Academy 178 

(Mrs. H. Glasgen, nee Olberding.) 



List of Illustrations. 289 

Page 
Following 

Concert Hall — Study Hall — Reference Room 178 

(Miss H. Fitch.) 

Museum 1 78 

(Misses Cleona and Cora Hackmann.) 

North View of St. Theresa's Hall 180 

(Misses E. and C. Burdick.) 

Mater Admirabilis Hall 180 

St. Luke's Studio 180 

(Miss A. Huelfeld.) 
Crib 182 

(Miss Josie Becker.) 

Music Corridor 184 

(Miss C. Benzinger.) 

Stage — Auditorium 186 

(Miss C. Schroeder.) 
Library 192 

(Miss Stella Hackmann.) 
Seniors' Study Hall 194 

(Misses H. and T. Olberding.) 

Seniors' Lavatory 194 

Rt. Rev. Denis O'Donaghue 196 

Commencement of 1900 196 

(Miss Elsina Brockmann.) 
Pupils Oratory of the Immaculate Heart of Mary — Altar, 198 

(Mrs. L. Kohus, nee L. Dillhoff.) 
Grotto Auditorium 198 

(Mrs. J. Niehouse, nee Homan.) 

Recitation Room 200 

Seniors' Recitation Hall 200 

(Misses E. C. and N. Kessing.) 

Mortuary Chapel 214 

Oldenburg, Indiana 278 



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